Defining ALL as Every = Each

Alicia S. Monroe, Ed.D.

 


  • All refers to the whole quantity.

  • Every refers to all the individual members of a set without exception. 

  • Each refers to every one of two or more people or things, regarded and identified separately.

All, every, and each imply inclusion. The terms similarly refer to a whole quantity and connote connection. In a learning community that is inclusive and receptive to all students, every participant in the community shares the responsibility of providing a high-quality education for each student. 

Mattering is a belief that we are significant to the world around us (Mercurio, 2022). Social psychologists identify that mattering arises from two primary experiences: feeling valued and adding value to those around us. In the context of education, mattering and well-being are inseparable. Mattering generates self-efficacy and enables every member of the learning community to thrive. Current findings enhance the understanding of the mattering construct. Conveying to students that they matter and acting accordingly is a highly effective response that mitigates micro- and macroaggressions and trauma.

Educators are uniquely positioned to develop relationships with their students. Studies reveal positive student-teacher relationships boost students’ academic development and sense of belonging (Arundel, 2022). Mattering deepens belonging by affirming human value. There is a reciprocal benefit in legitimately creating space and providing opportunities for all students to succeed. Positive student-teacher relationships can also impact effective instructional practices and engagement in correlation with increased student achievement, belonging, and mattering.

The mediocre teacher tells.
The good teacher explains.
The superior teacher demonstrates.
The great teacher inspires.

- William Arthur Ward

 

References:

Arundel, K. (2022). Positive student-teacher relationships boost instructional quality. K–12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/teachers-benefit-from-positive-relationships-with-students-research-shows/621803/ 

Mercurio, Z. (2022). How to Create Mattering at Work, https://www.zachmercurio.com/2022/11/mattering-at-work/

Excerpt from:

Monroe, A., & Britt Jr., R. (2024). Don’t Dismiss My Story: The Tapestry of Colonized Voices in White Space. Cognella Academic Publishing.