ABSTRACT
The chapter “Navigating Bias: There’s No Such Thing as a Lazy Kid” explores the author’s experience and realization that there is no such thing as a lazy child. The author reflects on a conversation during a leadership meeting where a colleague referred to some students as lazy. Drawing from the work of Dr. Ross Greene, the author discusses the importance of understanding that children do well if they can, rather than assuming they are lazy or unmotivated. The author shares personal stories, including one about a student named Paul, to illustrate the impact of this perspective. They admit to initially labeling Paul as lazy and trying various strategies without success. However, after receiving a message from Paul’s mother detailing the trauma he was experiencing at home, the author realizes the need for empathy and for using Dr. Greene’s Collaborative and Proactive Solutions approach. They highlight the importance of engaging in discussions with students, listening to their experiences, and working together to identify and address underlying issues. The chapter emphasizes the need to challenge the notion of laziness and approach students with understanding and compassion.
