Meet Jordan

💛 A Little About Me

I'm Jordan, and I'm 12. I'm thoughtful, and I notice things — like when someone gets left out, or when rules don't seem consistent. I'm outspoken, funny, creative and loyal. I love drawing, talking about big questions and playing basketball with my cousins.

I live with my mom, my stepdad and my brother, Caleb, who's 9. Caleb has ADHD. Sometimes he needs reminders, movement breaks or help getting started on things. I love him, and I look out for him. I've seen people think he's being lazy when he's really struggling, and that bugs me.

My parents work hard to take care of both of us. But I hear one sentence a lot: "You're older. You understand." Usually I do. Sometimes I just wish adults noticed what I need, too.

I respect rules when I understand them. When I ask a question, I mean it — even if it sometimes sounds like arguing to other people.

⚡ Something That Happened

Last year, a few students talked during independent work, and my teacher took five minutes of recess away from the whole class.

I had followed directions. So I asked why everyone got the same consequence. My teacher said it wasn't up for discussion. When I kept asking, I was told I was arguing.

I left feeling like some adults care more about kids obeying than about being fair. And I started to believe, "If something isn't fair, somebody needs to say something."

🏫 In Our Classroom

Then it happened again. Some kids didn't follow directions, and our teacher gave everyone extra work.

I thought, "Why am I being punished for something I didn't do?" I objected — and my voice got loud. My teacher heard me being defiant. It felt like nobody was listening to what I was actually trying to say.

🌱 What I'm Learning

I'm learning to ask questions respectfully, and to remember I might not know every detail. I'm figuring out when to bring up a concern in front of everyone and when to talk to a teacher privately.

I'm also thinking about the difference between fair and the same — those aren't always the same thing. And I'm learning that sometimes I need to change how I say something, and sometimes adults may need to change a rule.