Teaching From The Heart

When I was out last week I got an e-mail from the covering teacher telling me how awful and disrespectful my class was.  I was shocked.  This particular group is one of the best classes I have ever taught at the college.  Attendance is almost perfect with the only late comers being those who hit a traffic snarl coming from work.  They don't pack up early and cell phones are out of sight.  They do homework and participate well.  This class is every teacher's dream.

when I returned, I spoke to them about their behavior.  I told them disrespect was not an option.  They sat quietly and let me talk.  I told them I had covered many classes and had never been treated that way and did not expect my students to treat anyone so poorly.  They sat and took it and we went on with the lesson.

On the way out, several students stayed behind to talk.  They told me the sub went very fast and when they asked hIM to slow down, he refused.  They told me they asked for additional problems like the ones he had done and he said no.  He said their regular teacher was going too slow and that neither one of us cared whether they passed or not.  (My students know this is not true about me.)  He told them if they did not understand they should go back and retake the previous class.

I don't know for sure what led up to this and I have no idea whether these words from my students are even true, but what they felt was true.  (These were all good students.)  The students probably were not that eager in the beginning.  I know it takes a few minutes to get a class going when you are not the regular teacher.  But, I wonder if he gave up on them too easily.

Teaching has to come from the heart.  It doesn't matter if a question is not phrased perfectly or if a concept has to be checked.  Students learn best when they know their teacher cares.  When I cover a class, I let them know right from the start I am there because I love teaching and want to help them.  I try to adapt to the style of the person I am covering for while keeping my own style in check.  I know I am not even close to being a master teacher.  (What is a master teacher anyway?  I never even heard that expression until I started at Packemin in the mid '80s.)  But, what I lack in that discipline, I make up for by caring.

One of the best things about teaching at the college is the people in charge know everyone has a different method and teachers are encouraged to use what works best for them.  No one complains about chalk and talk.  As long as the students are engaged and learning, the teacher is doing a good job.   Everyone doesn't have to speak or go to the board.  Students don't have to work in groups or teach one another.  We are judged on a whole, not on a check list of meaningless items.

Racism or Making Money?

Skimming through today's Post while enjoying pizza and beer at my favorite place, I read the headline

PEANUT BUTTER, JELLY & RACISM

It seems a group of highly compensated education consultants convinced the managers of a Portland Oregon schools that the peanut-butter sandwich is a potential tool  for racism as Hispanic and Somalian students don't eat sandwiches.  

If you don't believe this, here is one link to the story on the Huffington Post and if you search, you will find many more links.

Taking Responsibility

My friend's son did something hurtful.  Instead of letting it fester like I usually do, I sent him a message, explaining how I felt about what he did.  We went back and forth a few times and then he said he was wrong and he was sorry.  He didn't mean anything by this and did not realize the affect it would have on me.

I'm so glad we had this conversation.  I'm glad I opened the gate to the wall I usually build around myself.  I hope this teaches me a lesson for the future. I am so proud of him for apologizing instead of denying and making excuses.  It was a very mature and responsible thing to do.  He is way more responsible than many three times his age.  His mom should be proud of him.

Thanks

The selection posted above is a piece I read Thursday morning, after getting up from Shiva, before the rabbi came over and walked around the block with me.  This is the official ending of the Shiva period, the first time I set foot out of my home. A week is an arbitrary mourning time, but nevertheless, it sets some sort of boundary and is a way to cope with a loss.

 I am not especially religious and neither was my dad, but my mom was.  She would have liked me doing this.  I couldn't do it when she died as my dad was so distraught, caring for him became my only concern. Doing it for him also honored her.

We had a minion in my home every evening.  A minion is a group of at least ten Jews who gather and pray.  It is something my temple does for mourners.  Again, it was something I couldn't do for my mom as we sat in the Bronx so I am happy I was able to do it now.  Most of my friends are day people so it filled my heart with joy when people I barely knew from the congregation stopped by to help in my time of need.  I made a vow to be available to help others, a vow I intend to keep.

Friends and community came together to help me.  Words cannot express how much this meant to me.  I cried when I saw Mr. AP walk into the funeral chapel and hug me.  His words, that we were family in spite of our differences made the world of difference to me.  In spite of anything I have ever written, he showed he has a good heart.  There were others too. others who I won't mention here, others I would have thought forgot me, who showed care and concern by coming to the funeral and Shiva.  I have thanked them personally.

And now it is time to return to life.  I intend to continue saying Kaddish (prayer for dead) the full 11 months  (Parents are good and don't need the full year to get into heaven.)  I have hospital bed and oxygen tanks to return, phone calls to make and an apartment to empty.  Bless my wonderful husband for always being there, for being a son to my dad and helping me through this time.

How Can This Be Good For Anyone?

The social studies AP, barely into his 30's, two years past his tenure date, stood in front of his department and told the teachers that many thought they were good but would soon learn the opposite was true.  He said there would be many unhappy people as observations and ratings were delivered but he wasn't there to make friends.

Teachers are upset.  Their work will suffer.  As a result, the kids will suffer.  But, he is the king.  This little inexperienced twerp will be hurting many until someone wakes up and realizes he is not the one who should be in charge.

Only My Dad

My dad was obsessed with family and with having his affairs in order. 

I just went through some of the papers I brought home.  Only my dad would have an enveloped labeled this way.  He wanted to make sure things would be easy for my sister and I when the time came.

Dad's Honor Guard

My dad never liked to talk about his time in the army.  It was painful and he didn't want to inflict the memories on his family.  Mostly though, he thought of it as a job he had to do.

Dad was a medic who served on the front lines in Germany.  An aptitude test pointed to his ability in this field.  He amputated arms and legs and saved lives.  Dad was at the battle of the Bulge.  His whole unit was gone except for him and another medic.  He took off his red cross badge and picked up a gun.  He and his comrade held the enemy off until reinforcements arrived in the morning.

Dad got real lucky on two occasions.  One, a call of nature pulled him from the fox hole when a bomb exploded killing everyone inside.  The other was bad meat.  The bad case of hepatitis had him recuperating in a British hospital when the unit he was with was wiped out.  He recovered and was sent home.

Dad always got very upset when he saw us sending troops anywhere.  He knew what it was like to be in combat and he never wanted anyone else to go through what he went through.

I would like to thank my wonderful niece for taking these pictures.  This ceremony, with the taps is something I want to remember for a very long time.

People Needing People

Alone in a sea of people. You feel you don't belong. You feel others don't care if you are there or not. And then you experience a loss.  Suddenly people are coming out of the woodwork. Some do not surprise you. They have always been there. But, oh the others, the new, the casual, the ones who you thought did not know you exist and the ones you thought forgot you exist.  People streaming in and out and the phone ringing with voices from the past.

What a wonderful feeling to be loved. 

My Son's Tribute To His Grandpa

My son was not exactly a student when he was young.  My husband always wanted to wear a bag over his head at parent-teacher conferences, not wanting anyone to recognize him in case they overheard what the teacher said.  He didn't believe in homework or books.  Those spelling word sentence assignments were torture for both of us, but mostly me.

Well, things change.  Boys grow up.  My on is a wonderful success today, yet every time he does something wonderful, I still am in awe.  Can this really be coming from my little goof ball?  Friday morning he did it to me again when he read the most beautiful eulogy I have ever heard.  He might be pissed, but I am sharing it here.  My son and my dad share a birthday.  My son is the only boy (two daughters and three granddaughters.)  My dad and my son shared unconditional love.  My parents loved all their grandchildren equally but my kids always believed they were just a little more special, daughter for grandma and son for grandpa.

Over the past few days I have been trying to decide what I could say about grandpa and couldn't put anything coherent together. Last night as I went to sleep I decided to try to come up with one word to describe him and see if I could go from there. Quickly I decided the word is "duty".
Grandpa always did what was best for those around him, always putting everyone before him. Don't take that the wrong way. No one ever took advantage of him.
From as early as a teenager he worked to support his sister and mother. I am sure he gave back to those close to him long before that but the stories I know start there when he delivered telegraphs. Even singing ones. Anyone who knew my grandfather could tell you that going out in public and singing like that wouldn't have been his first choice of activities.

Later in the army he gave everything and risked everything anytime he heard the word "medic" shouted. For years after the war he didn't speak of the things he did and the lives he saved, not because he was traumatized or wanted to repress the memories but because he never saw himself as a hero. In his mind he was just doing what he was supposed to do and moved on with his life.

Years later my mother was born and then my aunt. As they grew up he work 2 job so my grandmother could stay home with them. Even when they got older and were in school he kept both jobs and gave grandma only 1 rule. She had to watch over them and be home to see who they spent time with. Make sure they didn't get into trouble or fall in with a bad crowd. Aunt Regina I am not sure how you snuck by. Or was aunt Terri really the bad one?

Grandpa would and did anything for his daughters. When Hula hoops were the big thing he got his hands on 2 and carried them home on the bus and subway. He was offered money for them, much more than they were worth. He wouldn't sell. No amount was worth more than the happiness of mom and aunt Iris.
At least not until Lisa was born, then my sister with me coming soon after and Ronnie the next year. I will never forget the smile that came to him every time we came over. No matter what else was going on when he saw us nothing else mattered and nothing could upset him. Not even how it would always rain immediately after he washed the car in our driveway. Or how Jenn and I would go down to our basement where he would be sleeping on the recliner and wake him up.

He would pretend to be annoyed but I know he always loved it. He would watch us play Nintendo or whatever other silly thing we were doing. He would even take his turn at Duck Hunt. I can't really call it a turn though. If he didn't have to stop to eat or go back home I think he would still be going. He sat as far back as the cord would let him and he never missed a shot.

Later grandma got sick and instead of working 2 jobs he changed career paths and become a care giver. Working 3 shifts. 24/7 doing everything for her. Not because she needed him to, although she did. He did it because it was the right thing to do. It was his duty. He loved our grandmother more then anyone has ever loved another person.
As grandpa got older and he was unable to take care of himself another amazing person entered his life. Effie his aide was with him constantly doing the things for him that he had always done for others. I use the term aid because I can't come up with the right words but she was much more then that to him. Even as he was unable to give to her in the ways he gave to others he still gave with compassion. Always looking out for her, worried about her getting home safely. Even those who were there to take care of him he would try to take care of. In his mind anyone in his life he had the duty to look out for.
I learned so much from him. I learned my first curse word,  "Macy's" and some great insults, like "Your mother wears army boots". He taught me valuable life lessons like to quit while I was behind. I can't count the number of times he told me that when I was misbehaving or goofing around. I knew when he said that to me that I had better stop what I was doing before I made a bad thing worse. Most importantly I learned the most important life lesson of all. It is better to give than to receive. The joy of giving far outweighs the joy of receiving.
Almost 90 years after he started giving he can finally stop giving and just enjoy. No more wars, no more long hours at 2 jobs, no more taking care of others or worrying about others. Just eternity back together with grandma.

Dad, Today Is Your Big Day

The clock says it is 6:47,  around the time I called my dad every day for more than six years.  He had a fear of dying in his sleep with no one finding him for days.  The calls, lasting only seconds reassured him this would never happen.

I want to call and once again set his mind at ease.  I want to tell him all the people that are here to pay tribute and bring him to his final resting place.  All his grandchildren are here.  His great grandchildren are here. We are telling stories and looking at pictures of him and mom and wonder what their first conversation  will be about once they are reunited.  Will she ask about us or tell him he should have shaved and gotten a haircut?  For once she won't complain about the ragged clothes he always chose to wear (the new ones lay in their packages and stay on their hangers with the tags on) as he is in a shroud, meeting his maker and her the way holy men do.  I know they will hug and kiss and probably be dancing around, glad to be together again.

I want to call but I don't.  He is not there to answer.

Hard

 



It is 6:45.  I rush to the phone because dad goes to bed early and I never miss saying goodnight.  I take out my phone and then put it away.  He can't answer.  I'll never be able to say talk to you in the morning again.  I never thought this would be so hard.

It's Over

My dad's angel called at 12:21 last night.  I answered but she wouldn't talk to me, only my husband.  I knew though.  It was over.

We got dressed and went to his apartment, wondering where we would be able to park at 1:00 AM.  God was on our side and left a space right in front of his building.  Both aides greeted us at the door.  Only the male aide was supposed to be there but dad's angel knew his time was near and did not want him to go without her.  We waited for the hospice nurse to come and announce his passing and fill out paper work.  We waited for the funeral parlor to pick him up.  We cried.  The angel and I cleaned.  (The men sat.)

We drove those two wonderful people home and went home to get some sleep.  This morning we went back to dad's house to find his Tallis.  I want him to have an orthodox funeral, to present to God the way he lived, as a wonderful human being.  We sat with the funeral director and finalized arrangements.  I saw him, told him how much I love him and how much I miss him and cried.

My dad went peacefully in his sleep.  My husband and I spent his last day on earth talking and caring for him.  I know he is now in a better place.  By midday Friday he will be reunited with my mom, the love of his life.

Transition

Transition is the time between life and death, the body is giving up and is ready to pass on to the spirit world.  At this time the body gets either hot or cold.

My dad hates the cold.  I would hate to see him freezing.  I like to think the temperature he is now running is G-d's way of making this transition more comfortable for him.

Pat On The Head

This cartoon made me think about all the Principals and Assistant Principals who have gotten big bonuses and better jobs because of the "work" they did improving graduation rates.  Of course, improving graduation rates had nothing to do with education.  Principals approve credits for breathing.  APs encourage teachers to give out answers during exams and pay per session so teachers can do on line assignments for their students.  When it comes to education, the pat on the head is money in the pocket to those on top.

By the way, I know there are some of you reading this that know this post is all about you.  I'll be laughing when the pat on the head turns into a kick in the butt for all the damage you have done to the students in your charge.

He Should Just Stop Fighting and Go

 



When my mom died, my dad wanted to die too.  He talked constantly of ending his life.  I cried.  I wasn't ready to lose both my parents at the same time.  Thankfully, his will to live was stronger than his will to die.

It is now six years since my mom has passed away.  Dad's health both physically and mentally is gone.  He is in hospice care.  I love him so much, but it is his time.  No one should be suffering the way he is.  The life he has is no life at all.  I'm ready to let him go.  I want him to stop fighting and go.  I want him to find my mom and be at peace.  I love him so much I want to him to be free.

Why Geometry Is Important

ATR Thrown Out In Favor of Newbie



The Principal called Mrs. ATR.  She said Mrs. ATR had a very impressive resume and requested her to come in the next day for an interview and a model lesson.  Mrs. ATR did that and was told by the teenage Principal the job was hers and she could start the next day.  Some of the classes would be out of license but she did not care.  She called friends, gathered material and came in prepared to work.

Mrs. ATR worked two days in this school and was then called to the teenager's office.  The Principal said her services were no longer needed.  Mrs. ATR was being replaced by a recent college grad, a young man with zero experience who had not been asked to interview or teach a demo lesson. 

Mrs. ATR is back in the pool, rotating from place to place.  She no longer cares about getting a permanent job.  She knows no one will hire her.  She knows her efforts and her expertise will not be valued or appreciated.  She plans on just collecting her check until retirement day comes.

How To Know If You Are Any Good

 



The students arrive in class early and ask questions about the homework, wanting to know why they couldn't get the exact answer that is in the back of the book.  During class they answer and ask and help one another.  They smile when they understand.  I know they know what is going on.  I know without them raising a left or right hand (the way my former AP insisted kids let us know when they get something.)  I can tell they are learning because they are happy.  Overall, students want to be taught and are not happy in classes where no education takes place and, no matter what they say, almost no one values that A that was not earned.

I meet former students on campus, on the bus, subway and restaurants.  They thank me for what I have taught them in the past.  They claim they would not be where they are today if not for me.  Whether that is true or not, is doubtful, but the fact they believe is what matters to me.

I don't need Danielson or a pisher AP to tell me if I taught a good lesson.  The kids I teach, and have taught, let me know all the time.

More Art Of The Brick pictures here.

Use Only One Square

Government employees back at work were issued one roll of toilet paper today and told to be frugal in its use as there would be no more until the shutdown is over. While there is money for people, there is no money for supplies of any kind.  (Use of soap is also limited.)



 

 

Little Pisher

 



I  took a Yiddish class in my temple last night.  One of the words on the list we went over was

PISHER:  A bed wetter, a young inexperienced person, a person of no consequence. 

Lots of people had their own definitions of the words on the list. Of course, sitting in a group of teachers, the one that came to us was 21st century school administrator. Unfortunately, these no nothing pishers are the ones to determine who keeps their jobs and who does not.

Government Shutdown



Some government employees get to go back to work tomorrow.  They will get paid when all this budget stuff is settled.  Can they tell the gas stations they will pay for filling their cars when this is over?  Will the banks wait for mortgage payments? 

These employees are glad to be back.  But, they need their paychecks.

The Back Door Opens



When I began my teaching career observations occurred three times a semester and they were always unannounced.  I taught in a dangerous school and we had to keep our doors locked (you never knew what a hall walker would decide to toss in a room) so, when we heard the turning of the key in the back door, we knew something was up.

I remember hating those observations, but, in retrospect, they were really the best.  My AP saw what I did on regular basis, not some random show I was putting on for her benefit.  And, while there were certain things she looked for and expected, I knew what these were and did my best to do them in every lesson.  Oh, Danielson hadn't written her framework and for all I know, she might not have even been born then, but this AP and her observations taught us all to be good teachers.  Even with the lowest level students, she insisted on mathematically  precise language (my former AP said he wasn't impressed with "fancy" words and wanted us to use baby words the kids could understand.)  She taught discipline and she helped with curriculum.  She knew who was good at their job and who was not and didn't need standardized tests to form her opinion. 

The best part of the unannounced observations was no sleepless night or extra long preparation the night before.  They weren't so bad at all.  And, unlike the observations of today, these were designed to help, not hurt.  The comments in the 3 - 5 page report were insightful and led to better teaching.  A special ed AP recently told her department that the new evaluations would help her get rid of teachers she did not like.  Since she is incompetent herself, she wouldn't know a good teacher if she observed one and if she did, she would not want him around and now she would could be as clueless as ever and just follow a meaningless rubic.  It is back door to the rescue of the AP.

(Picture from The Art Of The Brick--a Lego exhibit at Discovery times Square by Nathan Sawaya--amazing what this guy can do with Legos.  It is a good thing Danielson wasn't around when he went to school or his creativity might have been stifled.)

 

Babies and Old People

 



I remember holding my daughter for the first time and worrying about how I could possibly care for this little person who was totally dependent on me for everything.  I remember rushing her to the doctor two days after we brought her home because she was crying and I did not know what was wrong.  She could not express her needs, but, she was small and I could easily get medical help for anything bothering her.  Thankfully at that time there was nothing wrong with her and my breast in her mouth usually soothed the beast in her.

Now I am responsible for the well being of an 89 year old.  All of a sudden he can no longer express his needs or communicate what he needs and wants.  Like the baby who cries, he is frustrated and angry.  He refuses to leave the house and an ambulance to an emergency room is not an option.  I know he will never survive a hospital stay.  I am in the process of setting up a home hospice, but it is hard.  God bless his wonderful caretakers Effie and Nat. I do not know what I would do without them.  I can't soothe him and I can't take his pain away.  I hope somewhere deep within, he still knows how much I love him and pray for him to find peace.

Aging

He gets up and then he sits down.  He repeats this activity for an hour.  The aide calls it calisthenics. He figures I won't get upset if he is exercising.  I know that is not what he is trying to do.  I am not sure he even knows what he is trying to do.  We both know he is not happy with what he is doing.

He walks until the walker hits a wall.  He gets frustrated and wants help.  He wants us to move the wall and gets angry when we say we can't.

It hurts so much to see his pain and no there is no way to relieve it.  He is a good man who led a good life.  He should not be suffering this way.

Trapped



Trapped in a body that no longer does what you want it to do. 
Arms and back hurt all the time.
Legs don't do what your brain tells them to do.
Lips that cannot utter your thoughts and articulate your needs.  Lips that utter words I never heard you use before.  Language coming out you never would use, especially in front of your daughters.  You are angry and belligerent, and I am incapable of helping.
Watching your frustration is frustrating me as well.

I love you.  Seeing you suffer is ripping me apart.

Government Shut Down



My beautiful and brilliant daughter is a federal employee.  While I won't mention what she does here, I will say she performs a job that helps insure the safety and well being of this country.  My brilliant and beautiful daughter is earning about a third of what she would if she took her education and expertise to private industry.

My beautiful and brilliant daughter loves her job.  She was always willing to sacrifice  money to do what she loves.  She valued her benefits and her security.

My beautiful and brilliant daughter has not gotten a raise for 4 years although she has gotten the best reviews in the history of her department.  And now my beautiful and brilliant daughter had been furloughed.  So much for job security.

Public employees work at jobs serving the citizens of this nation.  Whether on the federal, state or local level, they deserve our respect and thanks.  Telling them not to come to work, involving them in a stupid feud is not the way.  Congress needs to pass the budget.  This country needs health care for all.

Nurturing







The chihuahau never nurtured her little pups.  She was happy to see them bottle fed so she didn't have to have them hanging on her all the time.  She never played with them or taught them how to act around humans.  They grew up to be nasty little dogs, just like their mom.









When Administration Punishes The Teacher





Teacher and Principal argue.

Principal punishes Teacher by giving him a late session program consisting of most difficult kids in the building and puts the class in the trailer, where there is no security.  (500+ students and their teachers .don't warrant the same security as the rest of the school )

Teacher sees a Boy with his head down, wearing a hoodie and ear buds.  He tells Boy to wake up, remove hoodie and music and see him after class.  Boy, who after 3 years has no credits, punches teacher in face and then steps on his throat.  Other students run to building for security.  Teacher is doing better, but could not speak for several days and has yet to return to school.

Teacher will probably press charges and sue the school.  The school has been told for years about problems outside and the school has done nothing about it.  The school has kept its A rating.  Incidents have been kept quiet.  Many years ago a young man who was assaulted did not pursue as they were illegals and the school told them they would get in trouble if they followed through with a complaint.  It is a shame Teacher got hurt, but hopefully, his pain won't be for nothing.  Hopefully his pain will make others safe.

 

Inside Credit Recovery Story



The city graduation rates has gone up because of credit recovery.  I know the real scoop. The story was told to me by a teacher I met at a UFT retirement class.  Here is her story.

Before I retired, I was in charge of the global portion of a program like this.  Morally, it bothered me but I knew if I didn't do it, someone else would.  And, my only responsibility was to assign questions and to check which kids did them.

 I tried to introduce accountability.  Originally, kids were supposed to come in and take a test when the questions were done.  When the administrators saw the huge number of students involved, this was given up on.  Originally, the kids were supposed to complete two sets of questions, 150 in each set.  I spent hours picking out a variety of questions that varied in degrees of difficulty and tested all the concepts of the course.  When the assignment was due, only a handful of kids completed the assignment.  It was then cut down to 75 questions and only one set had to be completed. The program was a joke.   I saw kids who could barely complete daily homework assigned credit recovery questions in 3 subjects.  I saw an AP doing credit recovery questions on a smart board with all the students in the class giving answers and one young man entering them in.  I heard about the AP who paid teachers per session money to complete assignments with some students. I asked a boy who I knew was not a particularly good student how he finished his assignment so quickly and so well.  He smiled and I then asked who did it for him.  He told me he paid an honor student to complete work.  When administration realized the deadline was approaching and there were still too many assignments incomplete, they opened a computer room after school where the kids could get help while completing the assignment.  There were afternoons no one showed up.  One afternoon, a teacher who was already teaching late afternoon classes to kids who had completed few credits toward graduation brought her entire class to the computer room to work on this assignment.  The kids were earning double credits for no work and no education.  Needless to say, very little got done that day either.

This school, along with others have kept their graduation rates up and kept their A ratings.  The hoax is on the children and parents in New York.

Stupid Facebook Post and the Stupid AP Who Liked It

 



The experienced, knowledgeable teacher retired.  For over 30 years she taught, inspired and helped new teachers and administrators.  She was an asset to the school, someone who had done more for the school than all the newbies put together.

One newbie posted about how happy she was to see this experienced teacher go.  She didn't like being criticized by an "old lady."  She even wrote goodbye and good riddance for all to read.  The worst part of it is the AP "liked" her post.  (This AP has since decided liking it was not a good idea and got rid of the like.)  This AP learned the ropes from this "old lady" as she had no background in the area when she took the job and still knows very litle about what she does.

Oh, the young and stupid.  You would think a teacher would know better than to post crap like this and you would definitely hope an AP would set a better example.  But, this is what happens when the stupid are put in charge.  The kids they are in charge of  have a higher intellect.

There is a new Principal in the building.  I wonder how he feels about the stupidity of the teacher and the idiocy of the AP in charge of the department.

Actual facebook post here.

Moral Question



Would you do things that were immoral and just plain wrong to make sure your job would be here tomorrow?  Would you get others to do these things to help you move ahead?  I know I couldn't.  I couldn't live with myself if I did what others are doing.  How can they look in the mirror and not feel a sense of revulsion?

Special Educators With Self Serving Interests

 



As I waited to start my class, I saw Bill approach his teacher with a question about what she had put on the board.  It was a remedial class, the topic was dividing decimals and the question was 4/.08.

Bill was concerned.  He repeatedly told his teacher he had never seen an example like that, a big number being divided into a small one.  He said he was never taught that and did not even think it was possible.  He was obviously concerned about learning and upset about this question.  The teacher did not have time to discuss it at the moment and told him they would get back to it next class.

I had a sick reaction to the whole thing.  Bill is severely learning disabled.  He does not belong in an academic environment.  His speech, his handwriting and his mannerisms give him away.  Some high school special education guidance counselor, or special education supervisor must have thought college was a good idea for him.  Having him enrolled in college makes them and their statistics look good.  A frustrated young man is not their problem.  The blows to his self esteem will not hurt them.  The money his parents spend is not hurting their wallets.

Don't get me wrong, there are lots of students currently in special education classes that can go on to an academic college and have wonderful careers, but many cannot.  No college can help a student with an IQ of 70.  The adults in charge of special educating these students should be ashamed of themselves.  They care nothing for the students entrusted to them.

Villian In The School

I can't do more than spread the story, but that I will do.  This can happen to anyone.

DR Alison Coviello; PhD and Principal of PS 154 Channels Super Villain Bane





Unsung Hometown Heroes



Most teacher heroes are unsung and their good deeds get no mention in the newspaper nor do they win awards and get accolades from anyone but their students.

Mary is a special education teacher in a local high school.  She has a masters and almost 20 years experience.  She knows regulations inside and out and absolutely loves her students and her job.  Mary rarely takes a lunch period or a prep period for herself.  She knows her students need extra help and she makes herself available for them all day.   She is especially busy because her supervisor has dumped placed students with major learning problems in main stream classes and she does not like seeing these kids fail.  Mary not only works selflessly with students, she works with other teachers as well, sharing materials and mentoring newbies.  She works with administration to create the best possible conditions for learning environments. 

Mary knows her students and their parents appreciate her hard work and all she does for them.  She has heard this time and time again and seen it in the work they produce.  Perhaps the administration knows this too, but, if they do, they don't share this with her.  Her supervisor likes making her miserable, probably in hope of getting her to leave.

There are hundreds of teachers like Mary who never make it to the media as a hometown hero, but these are the ones who make our schools successful.

Those Who Give Us A Bad Name

 



Jeannie stopped me after class and asked if I would mind clarifying a few things we had gone over in class.  We spent about 10 minutes working and then walked out together.  On the way out, she told me about her science teacher.  I won't mention which science as what I am about to write is very negative.

Jeannie told me this science teacher told the class not to ask questions after class as he would not answer them.  He told them his office hours were to discuss career choices and not to offer any additional help.  Jeannie told me she might have to drop this class.  She is already a college grad, just back to take a few courses so she can enter a Physician Assistant program.  She knows she needs a good grade to make it and doesn't see this as a possibility with this professor.

Teachers like this one give the profession a bad name. Luckily teachers like this are few and far between.   Overall, the school is filled with a supportive, helpful staff and bright students who have the desire and motivation to succeed do. 

I Miss My Dad

 



My dad is still alive, but he is not the dad I have known.  His health is failing.  He is always tired and sleeps more than he is awake.  And, when he is awake, he is confused about night and day.  He talks about things that make no sense to anyone but him.  He can't read his own mail or pay his bills.  Everything stresses him out.

My dad was strong.  He worked two jobs so my mom could stay home and take care of my sister and me.  Anything we wanted, he managed to get, whether it was hula hoops, text books or cabbage patch dolls. When my mom got sick, he cared for her both physically and emotionally.  She lived a comfortable, happy life because of him.

My dad deteriorates a little more every day.  I don't know what to do.  He has wonderful caregivers 24 hours a day as I believe he needs to be in his own home.  I speak to him two or three times a day and see him several times a week.

He's here and I love him and cherish every minute with him, but I miss the man he was.  I know he misses the man he was too.

Silence

 



Two parents were discussing which high school should be chosen for an average, nice student, a quiet young man. They discussed programs like Math and Science Institutes, Law Institutes, Schools for Teaching, programs for the gifted and talented, Pre-Med and Farming.  I wanted to jump in and tell them what I knew about one one the schools they were discussing, but decided to keep my mouth shut and just write what I wanted to say here.

I wanted to tell them these programs are a farce.  They are gimmicks to attract the best and brightest, but that is all they are.  In practice, they offer nothing more than regular classes and there is nothing more.  I wanted to tell them that one of the schools they were discussing was the wrong demographic for the boy and that he would feel like a fish out of water in that environment.  I wanted to tell them how administrators were given their jobs, about how ill qualified some were and how these incompetent supervisors surrounded themselves with incompetent staff.  I wanted to tell the story of a guidance counselor who programmed a Chinese girl from Brooklyn into a class for Spanish speaking natives and saw no problem.   I didn't tell them about the AP who supposedly has her teachers supply answers to regents while the exam is going on and the kids graduate prepared for nothing  .But I said nothing, not out of loyalty to the school they were discussing, but out of a feeling of not wanting to get involved. All the schools are the same.  NCLB, Race To The Top and all the other "innovative" programs of the past have made them this way.

Hopefully,this young man will be fine, where ever he goes to school.  He has a strong parental support system and that helps. 

What I Forgot Over The Summer

Photo shop began today. It is amazing how much a person can forget over the summer, even a person who practiced and used what was learned. 

We have homework this time.   We have to make an advertisement using at least two pictures and text.  I remembered how to move photos, and how to re size them, but my first attempt was not very good.  Oh well, at least I'm not being graded on this and my teacher isn't being graded either.  I'll try again tomorrow.

Text Books

 



In approximately 8 years I have seen 3 editions of the same text book.  The page numbers change and maybe a few questions are different, but for the most part, the text is unchanged from edition to edition. 

The book companies do this to make money.  New editions make old books obsolete and kids can't sell the books they own.  Everyone is forced to buy new ones.  But, not my students  I assign work by sections and encourage them to buy older, cheaper editions which are just as good.  I wish someone had told me this when I went to college. I'm thrilled when one of my students tells me she got a book for $17.  So many never buy the books because of the price.  And now, at least for some of my students, that is not a problem.

(picture from Grounds for Sculpture--Princeton, NJ--a great place to visit.)

The First Day

  

 



Everyone hurried through the halls, finding familiar classrooms or looking for new ones.  Old friends hugged and caught up on all that had happened since they last saw each other.  Others, introduced themselves and gave directions to the bathroom, coffee machine and offices.  Teachers and students alike were full of smiles and happy to be back.  The program administrator walked into each and every classroom, welcoming and checking for problems.  All were happy to see ehr.

In case you are wondering,it was the first day of Si Beagle retirement classes, one of the happiest places on earth. 

So What If I Can't Chew Gum and Walk at the Same Time-My Degree Is In Education

PhD's in education. policy makers who know nothing about teaching--one of the problems with schools today

Hey, My Degree Didn't Prepare Me For This Job

Saw this cartoon and thought about all the administrators who want teachers to come up with solutions to problems they can't solve.  The teacher must find a way to get 100% passing, to get 100% attendance and  to have a 100% discipline free class  I can't even count high enough to know the number of faculty conferences I sat  at and had to come up with solutions to all that ails education.

And then of course there are APs who have no real background in math or anything else for that matter. One I know even failed her original license exam and is now supervising a subject she knows nothing about.  When teachers come to her with problems, she glares and says nothing or growls until they leave.  A degree from "Masters for Sale" doesn't prepare you for anything except becoming a supervisor in today's DOE.

The Toilet Seat Job also known as Being an AP



It must be hard to watch individuals that are younger and not as experienced than you moving ahead while you are stuck in the job considered the toilet seat of  the building  It must hurt to have them tell you what to do, to hear them yell at you when you do stupid things (things we all know you aren't smart enough to know are stupid.)  And it must keep you up at night knowing a person you once mentored can now "U" rte you.

You are stuck on this middle rung of the ladder.  You can't go up, but if you are not careful, you will hit the ground.  Many will be happy to see this happen.

Wishing Everyone A

WONDERFUL SCHOOL YEAR

Bronx Zoo

Pay what you want day at the Bronx Zoo (Wednesdays).  Great time until it rained. 

More photos here, on Facebook.

To Hell With Students



Judy was a really good teacher when it came to middle level and lower level classes, but her skills weren't so great when it came to teaching the top.  She knew it and her AP knew it.  So it came as a shock when she got a program with an Advanced Placement class.  Judy had filed (and won) a grievance because her program reflected nothing she asked for and only had bottom classes.  Her AP decided to punish her by giving her a balanced program including the class he knew she would not be able to do a very good job of teaching.  He was more than willing to sacrifice the students to make her suffer.  Luckily for these kids, he was convinced not to do this before the change took place.

Michael has a proven track record when it comes to teaching reading to special education students.  He loves what he does with them and they, in turn love him and succeed in his class.  Michael does not like to teach math.  Michael's AP wants Michael out and since he is good, the only way this can happen is if Michael voluntarily leaves.  And, this can only happen by making Michael as miserable as possible.  The AP does not care about the kids being hurt along the way.  The AP hired a couple of recent grads to teach reading.  She figures these kids aren't much of anything and she can always get someone to help them on their standardized tests so they will pass and still make her look good.  She knows Michael will do a good job teaching the subject he hates because Michael cares about kids.

Ah, the wave of the future.  Make the teachers you can't U -rate miserable so they will leave on their own.  Screw the kids.  Cheating gets them through regardless of what they have been taught.

Why I Love Traveling Solo

Got off the train at 34th and stopped at farmer's market and junk store.



Walked around Macy's and took random stupid pictures.

Checked out street vendors.

Stopped at Jack's, my favorite junk store.

Went to FIT to see latest fashion exhibit.

And then on to High Line to see Carol Bove's Art Walk.

More pictures here, on Facebook.