Demystification is a key part of the Schools Attuned Program where educators learn ways to recognize and respond to learning differences among their students. The following is a collection of thoughts about demystification from the Cutlerville Christian Schools in Michigan.

“I think demystification is one of the missing links in education. We teach, hand out report cards, talk to parents but often kids don’t know what kind of learner they are. In demystification we tell children their strengths (which really builds them up) and we talk about some areas of weakness. Then we share with them ways to overcome weaknesses and ways to use their strengths to help them be a better student. It puts the successes and failures before them. It’s a way to help kids help themselves.”
-- Mary Pfruender, 5th Grade Teacher, Cutlerville Christian Elementary School
 
“Demystification is great because it gets the student involved in the evaluation process. Often parents and teacher talk about the child but not with the child. Demystification is a way to help the student understand his/her strengths and weaknesses in a positive setting.”
-- Judy Vander May, 4th Grade Teacher, Cutlerville Christian Elementary School
 
“Demystification is very useful for me as a teacher. It helps you focus your ideas on a student and look at possible interventions. The parents appreciate the strengths vs. concern approach. The kids get a better idea of what kind of learner they are.”
-- Gail Hansen, 2nd Grade Teacher, Cutlerville Christian Elementary School
 
Demystification makes kids feel important and understood – no more mystery about “the meeting” about themselves.
It gives a good picture of the child for the teacher, because the teacher has to plan the words to use when demystifying.
It confirms for teacher/parents that what is seen in school is also observed at home.
It encourages team approach to addressing issues with the students.
-- Naomi Lyzenga, 3rd Grade Teacher, Cutlerville Christian Elementary Schoo

Comments Shared with Me at Parent Meetings
After demystifying a mom and dad regarding their 7th grade son:
 
Dad was wiping tears from his eyes and said, “This had been so helpful! Where were you 20 years ago when I was in school? I always thought that I was just dumb. But the boy that you just described was me when I was in school. I just wish I knew then what I know now…”
 
Comments from 3rd grader’s parents after demystification:
 
“This makes so much sense. You really know our daughter. We are so relieved and we appreciate that you have taken the time to see her as a whole person. Thank you for caring about her heart.”

Students’ Comments Shared with Me after Demystification 
I demystified a 7th grade boy back in October. I met with him this week and asked him how things were and if any of the things that we had talked about were helpful. He said, “It’s going better. I used to think that I was just dumb. Sometimes I still feel that way, but mostly I think about the things that I can do to help myself do better in school.”
 
I demystified a 3rd grade boy in January. I shared with him his many strengths and also addressed two areas of concern. When I was finished he said, “Cool, just wait until I tell my mom and dad. I thought you were going to say bad things about me.” I asked him if he remembered what he needed to work on and he said, “I need to ask the teacher questions when she uses big words and I don’t understand what she is saying, and I can’t wait until the night before a test to study.”

Read more about the Schools Attuned Program