Flor Rekani's Innovative Teaching Inspires Students to Think Big and Dream Bigger

Teachers at Bostonia Global, fostering a melting pot of cultures and languages.

Imagine a classroom where every student is not just a learner but an inventor, making positive contributions to their community.. This is not just a daydream but a daily reality for Flor Rekani, a beacon of educational innovation at El Cajon's dual language school, Bostonia Global in El Cajon, CA. "Our school is a melting pot of cultures and languages, which makes it the perfect ground for innovation," Flor shares. As the 2023 Emerging Fellow of the Year, Flor has revolutionized the way education feels and functions in her community. “Every day is a journey of discovery with these kids,” she says, her voice tinged with excitement and pride.

Flor Rekani, 2023 Emerging Fellow of the Year, revolutionizing education at Bostonia Global.

Early Inspiration

Born and raised in a vibrant, culturally mixed community, Flor's educational philosophies were shaped by her experiences as a student who felt constrained by traditional methods. “Growing up, I was told there was only one right way to do things. If you don't do it this way, it's wrong,” Flor recalls, reflecting on her early schooling. Her path to innovative education was paved with a desire to break these molds, to create learning spaces that embraced diversity in thought and background. “It [Project Invent] drew me in because it was about giving students a voice, something I felt I never had,” she explains. ​​

Teaching Impact

"The [Project Invent] fellowship allowed me to explore and adapt the curriculum based on the unique needs of my students. It's not just about following a set plan—it's about molding it to fit the real-world challenges and opportunities our students face," she states. Since becoming a Project Invent fellow, Flor’s classroom has continued to become a dynamic landscape where students lead their educational explorations. “It’s not about me or how I want things; it’s about them and their process. They own it,” Flor shares. This student-centered approach was not just a method but a necessity, as Flor found herself navigating through the diverse needs and innate creativity of her students. She recalls a project that particularly stood out, where students designed an eco-friendly gadget. “Seeing their ideas come to life, ideas that they were told were too wild or unrealistic, was profoundly transformative—not just for them, but for me too.”

Students at Bostonia Global actively engaged in an idea review session.

Philosophy on Student Empowerment

Empowerment in Flor's classroom comes from actively encouraging students to dream big. “We tell them, 'Share your wildest idea,'” she laughs. This philosophy has nurtured a fertile environment for innovation and self-expression. Flor believes in the potential of her students to make substantial impacts, which echoes through her teaching style. “It’s about harnessing their wildest ideas and channeling them into something great,” she adds.

Team Grip N Drive

Why She Teaches

Among the many stories Flor shares, one remains particularly poignant. During a brainstorming session, a student shyly suggested an idea that eventually won the school’s annual innovation challenge. “He said, ‘I didn’t think I mattered enough to have a good idea,’” Flor recounts, her voice softening. “But when his project won, the look on his face... that’s why I do this. That’s the power of believing in them.”

Community and Teamwork

Integrating her classroom with the local community is a cornerstone of Flor's educational philosophy. She emphasizes the importance of local involvement, which enriches the students' learning experiences and deepens their connection to the community. “Our Community Partners bring a layer of reality to our projects. They are not just assignments; they are real solutions to real-world problems,” she explains. This approach has not only helped students connect their learning to the world outside but has also fostered a deep sense of belonging and responsibility towards their community.

Students presenting their prototype and receiving feedback from their Community Partner, Ms. Ligia.

Community Partner, Ms. Ligia testing the students' innovative prototype.

Challenges, Triumphs, and Growth

Reflecting on her journey, Flor speaks passionately about her professional and personal growth. “I’ve learned to step back and let learning happen. I guide, I support, but I let my students lead the way,” she states. This has allowed her to witness her students grow in confidence and capabilities, further affirming her belief in the transformative power of education.

Transitioning to a more open, student-led classroom model presented its challenges. Flor faced moments of doubt and hesitation. “Letting go of control was hard. I had to trust the process and, more importantly, trust my students,” she admits. However, the triumphs have far outweighed the hurdles. She fondly recalls a project where students created a device to help local farmers conserve water. “It was all their idea, from concept to execution. Seeing them so engaged and then actually making a difference was incredibly rewarding.”

Team Grip N Drive celebrating their award-winning project.

Future Aspirations

Looking forward, Flor is excited about the potential to scale her impact by mentoring other educators. “I want to spread this philosophy, help other teachers see the incredible benefits of student-led learning,” she shares. Her ambition is to create a ripple effect, transforming education one classroom at a time. Flor is enthusiastic about continuing to integrate Project Invent's methodologies into other subjects. "It's not just about design thinking or invention. These are skills that can transform how students approach learning across all subjects.”

Flor Rekani is a testament to the transformative power of innovative education. Through her, we see the profound impact a dedicated educator can have by simply believing in the power and potential of their students. As Flor continues to inspire and challenge the norms of education, her legacy promises to be as dynamic as the learning environments she fosters—inspiring a new generation to think bigger, dream bolder, and invent a brighter future.

Flor Rekani with Team Butterscotch, guiding the next generation of inventors.