Rocha spoke after a session in which he had been instructing a class of 20 teachers on new games for literacy development. A side benefit is the strengthening of relationships among teachers. In an ordinary training conference, educators leave without even knowing each others' names. After a session with Rocha, in which the circle offers an opportunity to share their problems, fears and hopes, teachers gain a new respect for each other, reinforcing their mission. The circle changes all that.
Teachers have to examine their own values and respond as equal participants in the discussion.
Removing the pedestal that has protected them in the past is not easy, because our teachers aren't used to that kind of exposure. But it's a great way to address the real roots of our students' challenges regarding critical thinking and the political implications of education. When children create something that is both useful and beautiful, they can see their own value as contributors to human civilization and are therefore less likely to become victims. Participants in To Be a Child recognize each other on the street by their special backpacks for books and toys. It's super cool.