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Landing on my Feet: Teaching and Learning During a Career in Education
James Kleiner
Reviewed by: Gail Graham, Pacific Book Review
In this dynamic era, there exists a profession which extends far beyond the confines of a classroom, surpassing barriers of age, race, and socio-economic status. It is the noble calling of teaching. Teaching transcends the mere label of a job; it embodies a profound calling – an art form demanding passion, unwavering dedication, and a commitment to nurturing future generations. Within the pages of Landing on my Feet, Teaching and Learning During a Career in Education, James Kleiner leads us on an illuminating expedition through the core of education. With his lively storytelling and deep understanding, Kleiner encourages us to explore the diverse experiences of joy, adversity, and success which shape the path of a dedicated educator. From the contagious joy echoing through lively classrooms to the peaceful contemplation during the day’s close, Kleiner beautifully captures the spirit of today’s educators within a world that is always in flux.
In his memoir, Kleiner shares his transformative journey returning to education, highlighting the challenges and personal growth he encountered. He reflects on how his perspective evolved, embracing positivity in his teaching approach. Kleiner delves into the concept of lifelong learning, integral to his teaching career, where he discovers that teaching is a reciprocal process. He imparts knowledge while learning from his students and experiences. Despite the limitations of formal education, proper education unfolds within the classroom, shaping Kleiner into a more enlightened and effective educator.
Kleiner’s sentiment that “each student was a unique human being with different needs” encapsulates the heart of his narrative. With personal stories, he showcases the significant impact of compassionate teaching, stressing the crucial role educators play in shaping their students’ lives. He underscores the significance of acknowledging each student’s worth and offering essential support for their development and success.
A captivating aspect of the book is Kleiner’s unwavering dedication to teaching and belief in education’s influence. He acknowledges the importance of teaching students who are genuinely interested in learning and recognizes his responsibility to sustain their motivation. As he gains experience in music education, he appreciates the impact dedicated teachers have on their students’ lives.
Kleiner vividly portrays the classroom as a dynamic space of learning where students actively participate in their intellectual development. His dedication to fostering a supportive environment, shines through stories of strong connections formed between educators and students. Through music, Kleiner demonstrates how education can serve as a unifying force, bringing people together in pursuit of a common goal. In the end, he offers insightful advice for those contemplating a career in music. His dedication to music is evident throughout his life, and he expresses gratitude towards the professors, educators, and students who have crossed his path.
Ultimately, Kleiner’s message resonates as a powerful reminder of education’s profound influence in shaping both individuals and communities. As readers immerse themselves in the pages of Landing on my Feet: Teaching and Learning During a Career in Education, they are encouraged to contemplate the transformative potential of teaching and the unwavering determination of educators. Whether you find yourself in the role of educator or student or hold a genuine interest in the evolution of education, this book provides invaluable perspectives and motivation.
