We've Come a Long Way

"Growth means change and change involves risk, stepping from the known to the unknown." -- Anonymous

Found via Pinterest on "Wake Up in France"

I knew this day was coming for the past few weeks and have had mixed feelings. Since the school year began, I have been working at the tutoring center Tuesday and Thursday evenings. I teach children of different ages, most of the time I instruct reading but also do some math. I really enjoy working with children in such an individual way and love being able to get to know them.

In January I started working with a middles school girl every Tuesday and Thursday. I didn't add up the hours tonight but I am sure that was about 75 +. We spent lots and lots of time together working on the craft of writing. She has lots of great ideas but struggles to get them on paper in an organized manner. She's smart, talented and extremely creative. With all these wonderful things to say about her, I have to tell you-- I didn't feel this way in the beginning. Sure, I knew my role was to help her improve her writing skills and to push her along. However, I didn't realize that we were in for a journey and that we would arrive at this point.

The first few hours I worked with this girl were some of the most frustrating moments I have had since student teaching. She had a poor attitude, did not want to be at the tutoring center, and frankly, could have cared less about me. She refused to do the assignments and preferred to read her dark humored descriptive anime comic books. Some nights she would muster up the "strength" to get one spelling page done and maybe scritch down a few words on the assigned essay. There were evenings she came in super depressed and would completely shut down. I found myself unsure of what to do and allowed her to throw her fits. I did everything I could to encourage her but I wasn't going to continue to fall into the power struggle. I felt defeated. I'm an elementary teacher! I had no idea what to do with a middle schooler! I had anxiety and low motivation to tutor during that time. Needless to say, the beginning hours were awful and I kept hoping she would not always be at my table.

The schedule did not change.

She kept being at my table and all I could do was learn to go with the flow. I learned to deal with her moods, which was much like dealing with typical Oregon weather. Unpredictable. So, I did the best I could in approaching her each evening.

Somewhere in the middle of all this she decided I wasn't so bad and maybe..... just mayyyyyybe.... tutoring wasn't so bad either. I have no idea when the shift of attitude occurred but it took a big weight off my shoulders.

Once she started being an active participant, we accomplished so much together. We created a healthy relationship and a routine. As soon as she arrived she knew she had to complete a spelling page and then we would work on writing an essay. She learned that I truly cared about her and believed in her. Oh, I was passionate about seeing her succeed! I learned how to communicate with her. I learned how to sincerely compliment her so she felt valued and respected. She wasn't invisible to me. 

One of my favorite parts of seeing her grow was her realization that she could be anything she wanted. She is a gifted writer and has many many interesting stories. I truly think she could be a book author someday, if that's what she desires. It's humbling to have been a part of this process; all of the ups and downs. I saw her potential and wanted her to see it too.
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This was my last Tues/Thurs night schedule because of a conflict with my summer courses, which starts next week. I broke the news to middle school girl (as Shannan would say -- homegirl) and she responded with disappointment and proceeded to tell me this, "...I like you."

I told her I liked her too.

And "We've come a long way...."

Oh yes, we have. I do hope our paths cross again soon.

Thank you girl, you have made me infinitely richer than a millionaire for that compliment. That means more to me than you can possibly know.

New Superheroes for Schools: Arts & Music

Credit: Scott McDowell (?)/Mercedes Benz

I recently read an article by Brett Zongker (Associated Press) about Sarah Jessica Parker adopting a Portland, Oregon school. SJP and two others are taking on "some of the nations worst-performing schools." How so?! Well, they are going to improve these schools with an arts education. Perhaps you can tell by the tone of my writing but that previous sentence was lathered in sarcasm and a hint of irritation.

First of all, I want to say that I think it is good that these schools are receiving this type of help. My issue is that the arts and music should never have been taken out in the first place. Yes, I am well aware of the budget cuts and demands of high stakes testing (thanks to NCLB).

I just find it odd how there has been such a switch in perceptions of these programs. Music and the arts have consistently benefited students for years but have been some of the first programs to be put on the chopping block due to financial stress on educational systems. Now, after forcing these programs to hide behind the curtain, they are brought back in a new light-- seen as the cure that will help rescue children in impoverished communities. They're like the new Superhero, one that fights off the surrounding enemies (such as drugs, gangs etc...). In some ways the music and arts programs are like the "Avengers." In the movie, Nick Fury says this, "There was an idea to bring together a group of remarkable people. So when we needed them, they could fight the battles that no one could." Like the Avengers, music and the arts are powerful. Together they positively impact many lives. We just don't value them enough to integrate them as a permanent component of education. [Of course, this is rooted in political wars. These programs get caught in the middle like a ping pong ball.]  It's when there are massive problems like severe drop out rates that we call on them to save us. We forget how wonderful they are to have around, which is a shame. Shouldn't we be in the presence of greatness every day? Shouldn't we encourage greatness every day?

There are lots of qualitative and quantitative data that supports the benefits of integrating music/arts in the regular curriculum. In some ways, it's just good common sense that music and art are important in the development of children. Here is what some have advocates have to say:

      John L. Vitale (2011) says this about the importance of music education, "....musical study increases general cognitive abilities (problem solving skills and out-of-the-box thinking)" (p. 335).

     Lang Lang International Music Foundation (2010) states that:

• Music is a universal language -- it fosters communication among students, breaks down language barriers and is a "medium for exchange." (p.3)
• Music education improves science, math & reading performance
• Music education and brain development -- "The Rauscher/Shaw report suggests that the study of piano actually impacts brain function and transitions not only to academics but all skills that involve higher thinking" (p.4)
• Music education improves 21st century workforce skills -- promotes habit of excellence, develops quick mind, & promotes cooperation and teamwork
• Music education develops discipline and reduces anti-social skills-- "Students are more willing to stay in school if they are enrolled in music courses because even when they are struggling academically, music gives them something to look forward to" (p.5) As a result, drop out rates are reduced significantly. 

   National Association for Music Education (2007) made similar claims about music/arts benefits:

• Success in society
• Success in school and learning
• Success in developing intelligence
• Success in life

A favorite quote from this resource -- "When people put on a ply or a dance together, they learn to cooperate-- and find they must go beyond tradition and authority if they are going to express themselves well. The sort of community created by the arts is non-hierarchical -- a model of responsiveness and interactivity that a good democracy will also foster in its political processes. And not the least, the arts can be a great source of joy. Participation in plays, songs and dances fills children with happiness that can carry over into the rest of their education" (NAME).

These are just some resources I could access easily. There are multiple studies that support music and the arts in education. That is because it's not new news that these programs are needed in schools. I'll be honest, I fear how many children that will fall through the cracks because of the changing views of these programs (and for those that already have). Music and arts provide a place for everyone and gives children the opportunity to express themselves. The right brain needs the left; the left needs the right. 

We must not let schools be without these beneficial programs because the consequences become overwhelming. Once we cut out music/arts, the cord begins to unravel and it all gets out of hand. That's when we call for help-- we create a crisis and expect someone or something to save us. When really, the most simple thing is to preserve and protect. For the sake of ALL children, we must save these programs.

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Vitale, J. (2011) Music makes you smarter: A new paradigm for music education? Perceptions and perspectives from four groups of elementary education stakeholders. Canadian Journal of Education, 34(3), 317-343.

Teaching: What if we talked about those BIG words?

Image

Over the past few years, my teaching focus and philosophy has changed. These views I have will continue to change as I go through various experiences and situations. Currently, I am a beginning teacher. I don't have my own classroom yet but hope to one day. So much of my thoughts come from substituting, grad school coursework/discussions/readings, classroom observations, and discussions with professionals.

With that said, while I don't have years of experience, my thoughts on education are still valid.
~

This topic which I am writing about has been on my mind a few times here and there. Right now it is at the forefront of my mind.

I think teaching is a wonderful responsibility and sometimes extremely overwhelming. There are so many limitations on teaching these days. I won't bother to list them as that will detract me from the purpose of writing today.

While there are numerous stressors and difficulties in teaching, I wonder what would happen if we dug a little bit deeper.

Many schools have good solid rules like: be safe, responsible and respectful. There are also many schools and districts, which adhere to the PBIS (Positive Behavioral Intervention & Supports) model. This is a good system that consists of 3 tiers of behavior management (to learn more go to this site PBIS.org). I think these systems and rules are important for encouraging positive behavior and preventing negative ones.

However, my concern is that kids don't really "get it." I am not pointing out blame, as I know for a fact that there are hundreds and thousands of incredible teachers pouring their hearts out every day. What I am saying is that, I am worried that some kids don't see the real meaning in following rules.
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As I said, we need to dig deeper. We need to show students the roots of these rules and their purpose. We need to talk about the BIG words because those are why the rules were created in the first place. Right?

What big words am I talking about?

Empathy. 
Compassion.
Cooperation.
Forgiveness.
Integrity.
Trust.

Yes, these are what we need to be talking about. There are others of course. Not only do we need to start the conversation with students, but we need to keep it going. This means we enforce the meanings of these words constantly and consistently.

I don't think that this is an unrealistic idea. I think it is a big idea, after all, these words are rather "meaty."

Speaking of which, an image on Pinterest via Flickr has it right about integrity, "...is doing the right thing even when nobody is watching." Oh yes, that word has layers.

A conversation with these big words can start any day at a any time. We do owe it to each other. Really. The reason for digging deeper is so that these children can look at each other in the eye and see human beings.

We owe it to the homeless man on the street, the lonely lady walking by herself on a blustery day, the child who is always left out, the child who is shy but needs a friend, the boy who only has one pair of sneakers... We owe it to ourselves because we are all unique individuals who have hopes and dreams. We owe it to our neighbor who has skills that we may not possess. We owe it to each other because each person has value and until we go beyond just following rules, we will continue to be invisible to one another. That's what need to teach kids.

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How do we do it?

These big words can be discussed in classroom meetings, journal time, during read alouds, through problem solving situations, and daily activities. Another great way is to get kids involved with the community outreach. Words are better when they're put into action. There are many other good ways to go about this big conversation!

We also need to remember one simple thing: Kids learn from the adults around them. They are watching us, we are leading them.

~
It is a big idea. It's high expectations too.

I strongly believe it can be done. We just need to get out the shovel and start digging.

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Image was found on the blog- that is linked to the picture. Not sure where they got it from. I take no credit for this image.

Grow

I love the synonyms for the word grow: develop, multiply, swell, enlarge, expand, extend, raise, cultivate, produce....

This word describes what has been happening within me over the recent months. I have grown in several ways and am feeling a sense of clarity in the process. I'm starting to feel a little more settled into myself, which feels so good and I hope to continue this way. 

As I don't have much time to write (as we are packing and leaving for Costa Rica tonight!), I will list out some of these great changes and experiences:

Growth in Appreciation: On July 31st, we had a big family party for Granny turning 100 years old. I feel so incredibly blessed to have this lady in my life- she is a role model, and as everyone says an inspiration (almost every card she got said that word). At the party, it was wonderful to be with family members near and far and to be with family friends, and others who knew Granny from some social group or another. I enjoyed talking with friends of Granny because they often said how she influenced them or touched their lives; really makes me appreciate this stunning lady. This party reminded me of how important it is to extend oneself to others. Granny is always about others first, something I want to be better at. After the big party, there was a fun family picnic that allowed us all to relax, play games, and enjoy each other's company. 

On August 1st, 2011, Granny officially turned 100. So amazing :) I think I found out one of Granny's "secrets to longevity" this past weekend... My cousin had some questions from her students to ask Granny and one of them was about stress management. Granny had this to say, "I think I've had an easy life compared to people who live [location where she does]...I've had food, clothes etc..." Then she proceeded to say, "No sense in worrying because things will happen the way they should!" and "Do the best you can, hope for the best." Now, those are words of wisdom.

Growth in Commitment: Yes, that is the big 'C' word! haha This is something that I have fought with for a long, long, long time until recently. I won't give many details, but I will say that I am dating someone and have been for a good part of this year. He came into my life unexpectedly, somewhat ironically, and yet all at the right time. Sometimes life doesn't give you what you want, but exactly what you NEED. It took quite a few conversations with my cousins and a close friend to get me to see that blessing. I feel grateful for their perspectives and not allowing me to run away. This is a very good change and I feel whole. That's the best way to put it... And best of all, my heart feels at home.

Growth in Education: This summer I took 3 courses and finished them within a month and a half (yes, that is why I was absent in blogging for most of July...not that anyone notices... haha). I took two online classes for my ESOL endorsement- policy and literacy. The other class was a general educational technology course. Anyway, I actually felt challenged in my thinking about ESL education, in the policy course. We had to read a few chapters per discussion question out of this book called, Advocating for English Learners: Selected Essays (2008) by James Crawford (yes and I actually had to read- could not get by with scanning!). The book strongly advocates for bilingual education and English Plus. English Plus promotes proficiency in English and opportunities for everyone to learn other languages. Until reading this book, I hadn't given much thought to the type of education that ELLs receive and even how they are treated in our country. I mean, I've had some knowledge but not really thought about it. I've had many of my misconceptions cleared up and am now more understanding of these learners. Think this line sums it up, "While language learned in the classroom is valued in this country, a language learned learned by growing up in a minority community is likely to be considered a liability, not an asset" (p. 122).

Growth in Traveling Experiences: I could put 'growth in understanding cultures' too. This is very much connected with my ESOL courses... As I have mentioned a few times, Mom and I traveling to Costa Rica with our family friend. We are so excited to visit her country! I am a little nervous as my Spanish is horrendous, I have lost so much vocabulary since high school. However, I am sure it will be okay. I will know how it feels for my future ELL students, which will be incredibly valuable. I am excited too, to see the culture of Costa Rica. Since we will be traveling with our friend we will be very much immersed in it. I have a greater sense of what culture is - there is so much depth, way beyond the usual: clothing, holiday celebrations etc... 

Well, that is all I have time to write about now, but I think this describes some good things going on in my life. I probably will not be able to write on here until I return. So I will be taking notes of things to share! 

Hasta luego!