First-grade teacher Michael Han urges focus on literacy and school culture in Buffalo City School District

Michael Han, a first-grade teacher, told the Buffalo City School District that literacy and a welcoming school culture are central to his classroom after 28 years teaching in the district. "I've been teaching in the district for 28 years," Han said, adding he has spent the past 20 years in his current building.

Han described a classroom full of leveled books and daily read-alouds, and said students spend time writing about texts to deepen comprehension. "Reading is important," he said, and added that students in his class are now able to pick up a book and read on their own, a milestone he said the class has achieved this year.

Han also highlighted a schoolwide multicultural night that brings families to the building for food, songs and dances from different cultures. "The students get to bring their families in," he said, describing the event as a yearly celebration that helps unify diverse families in the school community.

Addressing staffing and role models, Han said there are "not a lot of men in the primary grades" and emphasized the value of positive male role models for young children. He said he tries "to be a friendly ... part of the school community" and to create a welcoming atmosphere for all students.

In closing, Han offered advice to early-career teachers: enjoy the work and accept that it can be stressful but also energizing. "They do really make it — they make our day better for us," he said, noting that the give-and-take of working with young learners keeps him engaged.

The remarks were offered as a public comment to the district; Han did not propose a formal motion or request specific board action in the transcript.