Shifting the Paradigm

Shifting the Paradigm from Deficit Oriented Schools to Asset Based Models: Why Leaders Need to Promote an Asset Orientation in out School
By: Shannon Renkly, Katherine Bertolini

The authors Shannon Renkly and Katherine Bertolini argue that identifying and build up students assets would be a better way of teacher. In other words assets over deficits. In the text assets are being defined as “what students can do”, while deficits are defined as “what students cannot do”. The text states “We can make powerful changes when we break through the pervasive influence of the deficit paradigm and recognize the untapped strengths of students and teachers.” (Wiener, 2006) It is said that teachers and staff must identify their assets to contribute to the school and the community. When the community focus is on assets members can easily work together to build up and nurture positive attributes in youth. Along with community, middle school plays a big role in a students future. Factors in middle school can determine a students high school success and likelihood to graduate. The text says “… it s essential for educators to build up belief, effort, and behaviors in middle school by focusing on their assets.” To end it off, a quote that stuck with me was “No matter how old a child in, they all need adults that are willing to mentor them, catch them if they fall, and encourage them to get back up and try again.” This reminds me of one of my high school teachers telling me to not give up a and keep trying. It’s one of the reasons why I was inspired to be a teacher. So I can be that person for someone else.