Star Wars In the Classroom

"Did you see the new episode?!"

"I can't believe that Mando --"

"I watched A New Hope for the first time!"

Star Wars has been an essential part of my life for well, as long as I can remember. I grew up watching reruns of A New Hope, The Empire Strikes Back, and Return of the Jedi on TV with my dad. Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, lightsaber, Jedi, and Star Wars were common names in our household. I remember seeing Revenge of the Sith with my dad in theaters as a new 11 year old, sobbing during the Battle of Mustafar. When Episodes 7-9, Rouge One, and Solo came out, I was right back in the theater with my dad on opening night, watching wide eyed.

As a kid, I always dreamed of sharing the Star Wars experience with my own children. Little did I know, I would be able to experience it much sooner than anticipated. As a teacher, your students are your kids. Constantly my students will ask if we can watch The Mandalorian or a Star Wars movie during our down time. Other times, they'll ask if we can watch The Clone Wars. I've had countless in-depth conversations with my students about my thoughts on different Star Wars theories or what I thought about The Clone Wars, The Mandalorian, or what I think about the new shows that are coming out. Star Wars has become an important part of our classroom culture.

The joy that Star Wars brings is etched across everyone's face. In 1977, I'm sure teachers then were experiencing the same joy as I am today discussing this ever growing universe with my students. It brings everyone together. We come from different walks of life. We come with different interests, and yet, we're all giddy because of something Mr. George Lucas allowed us to experience with him.

I look forward to discussing the newest episodes or movies with my students. It's a time where we can be ourselves in the classroom. It's a time where everyone can let down their guard, be a kid, and talk about how shocked they were at the newest reveal, plot twist, or how adorable Baby Yoda was in the newest episode.

Star Wars is now an essential element to our culture, including our classrooms, where we can discuss and bond over something that pre-dates all of us.