During institute a few weeks ago, one corps member noticed that our district had recently cut 400 jobs. A little concerned, we asked an '06 (someone who began teaching with TFA in 2006) what this would mean for our placements. He replied with a laugh, "It's a political move because they didn't receive as much money from the state as they requested - don't worry, it won't affect TFA people." Reassured, but unsure how to feel about the too typical, somewhat arrogant, self-assurance of many corps members, I concluded that nothing would be affected.
That was until two days ago. I received an email relaying to me and another '08 that our placements were being shifted around. The next day I learned that I will now be in a high school, which luckily is about the same distance, although a totally different direction, from the apartment. The middle school math praxis II, which I took back in the spring, allows teachers to teach grades 6-9. Thus, I will be teaching 9th grade math - nice, because I won't have multiple grade levels to prepare for, although I still may have different subjects within the 9th grade. My initial preference was actually for high school, so I am getting my first choice after all, even though I had been looking forward to middle school after my experience this summer.
The TFA name might get you great benefits at Wachovia and Kinko's, but it can't protect you from all bureaucratic shifts it seems.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Monday, July 14, 2008
Home Sweet Home!
Back in Oaktown and already missing institute. I must say, those first few weeks were rather rough in terms of scrambling together lesson plans and attempting to execute effectively and efficiently. Overall though, despite the fact that I was extremely skeptical that Teach for America could prepare individuals completely new to teaching to lead their own classrooms to high achievement the very next fall, I am feeling far more confident in this regard than I ever thought I would.
On the last day of teaching this summer we got new freedom in terms of what we could plan. We began the day with a spontaneous push-up contest, with Mr. C. seeing just how many he could push out in two minutes. This was sparked by my informing the class why I had been absent the day before - attending my brothers OCS graduation - and following that, how many push-ups my brother did in 2 minutes. Mr. C. thought he could easily surpass this number, and set to work with bewildered and skeptical students looking on. In the end, Mr. C. put forth a valiant effort, performing far more than I thought he could; however, his form did not reach ARMY standards, and therefore I had to inform him that virtually every one he did would not have counted (I also warned him of this during his attempt, but he failed to heed my warnings).
After a morning workout, it was time for my lesson: Meditation. I set out on the floor the blankets I had brought with me and asked students to remove their shoes and join me in a circle. We chatted about the benefits of meditation - including stress reduction, boosting the immune system, improved cognitive and athletic performance, and more. Then we got into our first meditation: with our eyes closed, we counted our breaths from one to ten and then back to one in our heads.
Now, keep in mind that when first considering whether or not to bring meditation to the class, I had a few reservations. First and foremost, I was concerned that students would simply fall asleep. This was a risk particularly due to the fact that my lesson came first in the day - 8:30am. My second worry was that they would not take it seriously, perhaps laughing and talking during the meditation. Fortunately, my fears were assuaged. Our kids were energized and a short talk about staying focused on the meditation kept them engaged ("if you find yourself with your eyes open, exchanging a laugh with a friend, just close your eyes and bring your attention back to you breathing"). When I was ready to bring them out of is, I opened my eyes, looked around, and saw all students relaxed with their eyes closed. It was a definite success, with students saying that this was a technique they would likely try again at home when they needed to relax - whether it be to escape the stress that an unhappy baby's screaming might induce or just to come down before bed after a long day. This is something that I will absolutely incorporate into my classes in the fall once a safe, supportive environment has been established.
I have been home for a few days now and it's unbelievable how quickly institute went by. I will surely keep in touch with students I met over the summer and will spend the next two weeks preparing mentally and logistically before heading back to the South for more directed preparation. Nice to get some time off though to eat well and see old friends!
On the last day of teaching this summer we got new freedom in terms of what we could plan. We began the day with a spontaneous push-up contest, with Mr. C. seeing just how many he could push out in two minutes. This was sparked by my informing the class why I had been absent the day before - attending my brothers OCS graduation - and following that, how many push-ups my brother did in 2 minutes. Mr. C. thought he could easily surpass this number, and set to work with bewildered and skeptical students looking on. In the end, Mr. C. put forth a valiant effort, performing far more than I thought he could; however, his form did not reach ARMY standards, and therefore I had to inform him that virtually every one he did would not have counted (I also warned him of this during his attempt, but he failed to heed my warnings).
After a morning workout, it was time for my lesson: Meditation. I set out on the floor the blankets I had brought with me and asked students to remove their shoes and join me in a circle. We chatted about the benefits of meditation - including stress reduction, boosting the immune system, improved cognitive and athletic performance, and more. Then we got into our first meditation: with our eyes closed, we counted our breaths from one to ten and then back to one in our heads.
Now, keep in mind that when first considering whether or not to bring meditation to the class, I had a few reservations. First and foremost, I was concerned that students would simply fall asleep. This was a risk particularly due to the fact that my lesson came first in the day - 8:30am. My second worry was that they would not take it seriously, perhaps laughing and talking during the meditation. Fortunately, my fears were assuaged. Our kids were energized and a short talk about staying focused on the meditation kept them engaged ("if you find yourself with your eyes open, exchanging a laugh with a friend, just close your eyes and bring your attention back to you breathing"). When I was ready to bring them out of is, I opened my eyes, looked around, and saw all students relaxed with their eyes closed. It was a definite success, with students saying that this was a technique they would likely try again at home when they needed to relax - whether it be to escape the stress that an unhappy baby's screaming might induce or just to come down before bed after a long day. This is something that I will absolutely incorporate into my classes in the fall once a safe, supportive environment has been established.
I have been home for a few days now and it's unbelievable how quickly institute went by. I will surely keep in touch with students I met over the summer and will spend the next two weeks preparing mentally and logistically before heading back to the South for more directed preparation. Nice to get some time off though to eat well and see old friends!
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
A Bitter-Sweet Work-Free Night
Yesterday over dinner, I learned of rumors going around school that students plan to smuggle weapons (guns and/or razors) into school through pregnant girls on Thursday. As mentioned earlier, these young women are not required to pass through the metal detectors for fear of harming their unborn children. The metal detector staff, including myself, do not always thoroughly search these individuals - a quick search through their bags and maybe a light pat down. Of all students, these would definitely be the best to bring in unwelcome weaponry into the place.
Well fights needn't wait until this Thursday evidently. This morning a corps member noticed a razor blade hidden in a female students' hair. She notified a veteran teacher, who proceeded either not to understand or not care - still unclear. However, eventually the student was confronted, ending in her suspension and likely a trip to juvi. Almost half of this one class has been suspended at some point during summer school.
Yesterday the school had an assembly where "star" and "most-improved" students were appreciated in front of the school. The facilitator did a model job handling the hidden hostile atmosphere...not exactly. He began by getting each middle school, in turn, to out-cheer other schools. If this conflict is truly between middle schools, what on earth would move someone to highlight these differences in front of the largest crowd possible? Additionally, if the administration really believes that there may be an eruption of violence on Thursday, why would it let school run go on that day. Theoretically, an ideal leadership would call off school after the test, ensuring the safety of students and all staff. However, apparently school will go on. Luckily, I will not be at school on Thursday, as I will be cheering on my brother for his graduation; however, I do worry about the well-being of my fellow corps members and students.
The high note of the week was certainly yesterday afternoon when one of my students initiated an enthusiastic high-five at the end of the day. Often I am the initiator, receiving a less than incredible response from students. Thus, it completely made my day when G. sent a big high-five my way.
Yesss work-free evening, amazing. Time to look over those apartment details...
Well fights needn't wait until this Thursday evidently. This morning a corps member noticed a razor blade hidden in a female students' hair. She notified a veteran teacher, who proceeded either not to understand or not care - still unclear. However, eventually the student was confronted, ending in her suspension and likely a trip to juvi. Almost half of this one class has been suspended at some point during summer school.
Yesterday the school had an assembly where "star" and "most-improved" students were appreciated in front of the school. The facilitator did a model job handling the hidden hostile atmosphere...not exactly. He began by getting each middle school, in turn, to out-cheer other schools. If this conflict is truly between middle schools, what on earth would move someone to highlight these differences in front of the largest crowd possible? Additionally, if the administration really believes that there may be an eruption of violence on Thursday, why would it let school run go on that day. Theoretically, an ideal leadership would call off school after the test, ensuring the safety of students and all staff. However, apparently school will go on. Luckily, I will not be at school on Thursday, as I will be cheering on my brother for his graduation; however, I do worry about the well-being of my fellow corps members and students.
The high note of the week was certainly yesterday afternoon when one of my students initiated an enthusiastic high-five at the end of the day. Often I am the initiator, receiving a less than incredible response from students. Thus, it completely made my day when G. sent a big high-five my way.
Yesss work-free evening, amazing. Time to look over those apartment details...
Sunday, July 6, 2008
On Post and Male Gay Bars
After a virtual bike race through redwood forests and pacific coastal trails (amazing exercise equipment these days!) I headed out to test my navigational skills on a new public transportation system. Walking about a mile to the closest rapid transit train system, I successfully got myself to the Atlanta airport, and from there to Ft. Benning, utilizing a highly convenient shuttle service. Rather hilariously ironic, I thought, the film on the way to the ARMY Fort was "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry," a 2007 comedy about two FDNY young men who decide to get married to reap the benefits of domestic partnerships.
Once on base, the service dropped me right outside Daniel's dorm, which was pretty sweet. I couldn't believe how enormous the base is; I have been told it is the largest in the United States. Seriously though, it is a town in and of itself - warranting its own "Ft. Benning" for the city location of the address. I met one of DFish's bunkmates and a few of his other buddies. We enjoyed some delicious hamburgers, a quick trip to Barnes and Noble, and the bumping, eclectic musical collection of a fellow soldier. It was fantastic to see and hang out with him. I look forward to his graduation this Thursday and spending over a week together back home in Cali beginning in a couple of weeks.
I left Ft. Benning around 8 and arrived back in ATL around 10:15pm. Much like I become uncomfortable seeing acquaintances from high school that I haven't seen in a while, I ran into some TFA people getting off MARTA at the same time as I. It was nice to see them, however I worried that they would too adamantly encourage me to join them for a night on the town - I was feeling some solitary exploration of the city as opposed to a group effort. One gentlemen suggested that a girl shouldn't walk home alone. Praying that chivalry truly is dead, I reaffirmed my preference for walking around a bit before heading home and hoped that he wouldn't insist against this. Finally parting from the group, I said good night, and walked in the direction opposite campus.
I realized that I was in the same location that I had been when out and about with a few friends the night before, certainly a comfort. The street was lit up with electronic signs and rainbow flags and the air was filled with the combination of live and DJ-controlled music. Poking my head into one bar, I felt unsure of my presence there and headed to Starbucks for a quick bite. Recharged, I made up my mind to go back to the bar. Asking in front about the establishment, I had trouble discerning the general vibe of the scene. Well, I'll just have to decide for myself, I thought. With some renewed ounces of courage, I opened the door and asked how much the cover was. Within 10 seconds of entering, I immediately fled toward the bar for a coke, feeling the need for something, anything in hand to blend in. Too soon did I realize that I was not only the only white individual in the place, but also the only female...hmm. My suspicions about the place were confirmed as two African-American gentlemen took the floor and showed each other a little love. I didn't really feel overly out of place, as I was very much enjoying the music, but worried that others might be bothered by the presence of a female in their all-male space - thus, I decided to leave. Luckily I found a bus back to campus, as I didn't feel too safe walking the mile back to campus in the dark.
One more week of school and then back to Cali next Saturday!
Once on base, the service dropped me right outside Daniel's dorm, which was pretty sweet. I couldn't believe how enormous the base is; I have been told it is the largest in the United States. Seriously though, it is a town in and of itself - warranting its own "Ft. Benning" for the city location of the address. I met one of DFish's bunkmates and a few of his other buddies. We enjoyed some delicious hamburgers, a quick trip to Barnes and Noble, and the bumping, eclectic musical collection of a fellow soldier. It was fantastic to see and hang out with him. I look forward to his graduation this Thursday and spending over a week together back home in Cali beginning in a couple of weeks.
I left Ft. Benning around 8 and arrived back in ATL around 10:15pm. Much like I become uncomfortable seeing acquaintances from high school that I haven't seen in a while, I ran into some TFA people getting off MARTA at the same time as I. It was nice to see them, however I worried that they would too adamantly encourage me to join them for a night on the town - I was feeling some solitary exploration of the city as opposed to a group effort. One gentlemen suggested that a girl shouldn't walk home alone. Praying that chivalry truly is dead, I reaffirmed my preference for walking around a bit before heading home and hoped that he wouldn't insist against this. Finally parting from the group, I said good night, and walked in the direction opposite campus.
I realized that I was in the same location that I had been when out and about with a few friends the night before, certainly a comfort. The street was lit up with electronic signs and rainbow flags and the air was filled with the combination of live and DJ-controlled music. Poking my head into one bar, I felt unsure of my presence there and headed to Starbucks for a quick bite. Recharged, I made up my mind to go back to the bar. Asking in front about the establishment, I had trouble discerning the general vibe of the scene. Well, I'll just have to decide for myself, I thought. With some renewed ounces of courage, I opened the door and asked how much the cover was. Within 10 seconds of entering, I immediately fled toward the bar for a coke, feeling the need for something, anything in hand to blend in. Too soon did I realize that I was not only the only white individual in the place, but also the only female...hmm. My suspicions about the place were confirmed as two African-American gentlemen took the floor and showed each other a little love. I didn't really feel overly out of place, as I was very much enjoying the music, but worried that others might be bothered by the presence of a female in their all-male space - thus, I decided to leave. Luckily I found a bus back to campus, as I didn't feel too safe walking the mile back to campus in the dark.
One more week of school and then back to Cali next Saturday!
Friday, July 4, 2008
Two Great Lessons and Handcuffs
I ended the week on a high note, having given two excellent lessons. The first consisted of an interactive activity where students were given post-its with a number on it, decided whether it was rational or irrational (conferring with a friend if necessary), and then stuck it in the appropriate rational or irrational circle. My Faculty Advisor asked me how I felt about them, and I shared with her that I thought they were my best days thus far, she nodded with encouragement.
Last week there was a big fight at school. During metal detector duty heads started turning towards the noise beginning to erupt from the gym downstairs. A police officer came in through our side of the metal detectors. Shortly after, he returned with a young man in handcuffs. As far as I heard, he was taken to the station and is now in jail. During the fight one teacher, a corps member, fled from the gym and proceeded to sing "Jesus Loves Me" with a dazed, holding-onto the-faith-of-a-greater-power look. We had various reactions, but this was certainly the most extreme.
Speaking of God; in one of our sessions this week we examined the case of a classroom of four TFA women. They had been talking about how rough the boys they had were, however I still had my doubts, assuming that they were merely exaggerating. However, as I sat in the back of their classroom this week observing, I realized I was wrong. The group never ceases to talk while the teacher talks; one boy got out of his chair, jumping off of a desk to reach a high shelf upon which he threw his shirt. The students attempt to out-disrespect one another and the teacher constantly. I truly admire how these teachers maintain a positive attitude.
Back to the session...the four teachers relayed that they refused to give up on one particular student in their class - the leader who encourages other students to refrain from keeping up a productive learning environment. After the group offered some suggestions, one gentleman raised his hand and offered, "Look, Jesus Christ came down and even he couldn't save everybody." True, perhaps, I thought; however, the uncomfortable silence led me to believe that he had struck a wrong cord among others in the room. Moving right along, the individual leading the discussion hastily moved forward without really addressing the comment, as I saw a note passed between two members in the audience reading, "Big Brother says (crossed out) RELIGION."
At our weekly school meeting yesterday afternoon, our school director noted "just one more thing" before we broke for the holiday weekend. She reminded us that while students will take their official re-test next Wednesday, many students may return on Thursday just to fight. One might first think that the fighting is gang related, with students clearly choosing to wear red or blue and the bloods or crips signs written around the school or being thrown up by students. However, it seems as though the conflict is more over middle schools than gangs. Hopefully next Thursday will go smoothly...
Aside from school, I attended a corps social event last night, followed by a trip into downtown ATL to catch some nightlife. We went to an edgy bar/restaurant called "The Vortex," enjoying some delicious hummus. For the 4th tonight, I headed to a friend's home for some grilling and small town fireworks. The food was delicious, the fireworks impressive, and most enjoyable of all, the dogs sweet and cuddly. Taking a day trip to visit my bro tomorrow!
Last week there was a big fight at school. During metal detector duty heads started turning towards the noise beginning to erupt from the gym downstairs. A police officer came in through our side of the metal detectors. Shortly after, he returned with a young man in handcuffs. As far as I heard, he was taken to the station and is now in jail. During the fight one teacher, a corps member, fled from the gym and proceeded to sing "Jesus Loves Me" with a dazed, holding-onto the-faith-of-a-greater-power look. We had various reactions, but this was certainly the most extreme.
Speaking of God; in one of our sessions this week we examined the case of a classroom of four TFA women. They had been talking about how rough the boys they had were, however I still had my doubts, assuming that they were merely exaggerating. However, as I sat in the back of their classroom this week observing, I realized I was wrong. The group never ceases to talk while the teacher talks; one boy got out of his chair, jumping off of a desk to reach a high shelf upon which he threw his shirt. The students attempt to out-disrespect one another and the teacher constantly. I truly admire how these teachers maintain a positive attitude.
Back to the session...the four teachers relayed that they refused to give up on one particular student in their class - the leader who encourages other students to refrain from keeping up a productive learning environment. After the group offered some suggestions, one gentleman raised his hand and offered, "Look, Jesus Christ came down and even he couldn't save everybody." True, perhaps, I thought; however, the uncomfortable silence led me to believe that he had struck a wrong cord among others in the room. Moving right along, the individual leading the discussion hastily moved forward without really addressing the comment, as I saw a note passed between two members in the audience reading, "Big Brother says (crossed out) RELIGION."
At our weekly school meeting yesterday afternoon, our school director noted "just one more thing" before we broke for the holiday weekend. She reminded us that while students will take their official re-test next Wednesday, many students may return on Thursday just to fight. One might first think that the fighting is gang related, with students clearly choosing to wear red or blue and the bloods or crips signs written around the school or being thrown up by students. However, it seems as though the conflict is more over middle schools than gangs. Hopefully next Thursday will go smoothly...
Aside from school, I attended a corps social event last night, followed by a trip into downtown ATL to catch some nightlife. We went to an edgy bar/restaurant called "The Vortex," enjoying some delicious hummus. For the 4th tonight, I headed to a friend's home for some grilling and small town fireworks. The food was delicious, the fireworks impressive, and most enjoyable of all, the dogs sweet and cuddly. Taking a day trip to visit my bro tomorrow!
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