Persistent Pondering

Where do social action, art, music, technology, media, pop culture, and most importantly, student needs intersect?

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    Keeping it Real in an Urban High School

    Because one of the reasons I continue to teach at an urban comprehensive high school is there is never a dull moment and because some of my previous posts have been just too serious, I have some fun anecdotes to share with you from my first week of teaching freshman and sophmore English.

     

    Anecdote 1:

    Me: How was your summer?

    Student: Great, Miss. I went to New York.

    Me: Wow! That is exciting. What did you do? (At this point, I am thnking about what a culturally rich city it is. How I love Manhatten, its diversity, its amazing museums and food. I am eager to hear his adventures.)

    Student: It was so great all I did was watch white girls. (Enter laughter here)

     

    Anecdote 2:

    At North Dallas HIgh School, we have gendered classes for freshmen. This was a sad, sad revelation for my young men. Of course, they asked why, and I responded with the usual, "We want you to have as few distractions as possible so you can succeed." One of them was particularly concerned.

    Male Student: So all the boys are in all-boys classes?

    Me: Yes. That's right.

    Male Student: But what about the girls?

    (Pregnant Pause. Really? Really? Logic, please. At this point, I am laughing hysterically on the inside, but I proceed with dignity and respect for him.)

    Me: Yes, the girls, too.

    Male: Good. I guess I don't have to worry about my girl, then.

     

    Yup, deep belly laughs. It keeps me young. It keeps me loving my kids. It keeps me going.

    Tags » student interaction urban education
    • 26 August 2010
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