Fires in Our Lives: Advice for Teachers from Today’s High School Students

In this update to the groundbreaking Fires in the Bathroom, which shed light on what high school students wanted from their teachers, academics Cushman, Kristien Zenkov, and Meagan Call-Cummings report that the student population has become more diverse in terms of culture and language while societal pressures have resulted in increased mental health issues. Teacher demographics, however, have remained stable and thus many students encounter educators who do not resemble them in terms of race or culture. Nevertheless, in this stirring work, the authors stress that students have a strong interest in their education and how it can prepare them for future success. Students hunger for a safe learning environment, a sense of belonging, the ability to connect with those of differing backgrounds, and support as they find their voice and hone their talents. Readers will be roused by eye-opening accounts from students grappling with climate change, community violence, voter engagement, immigration, gender identity, and other issues. The authors provide resources such as lesson plans, websites, and organizations enabling teachers to meet curriculum requirements while also imparting knowledge and skills desired by students.