Tuesday, June 24, 2008
Inspiration in the midst of mental chaos
I am not sure what to say about today yet. I think I am still mentally processing all the highways on which my mental thoughts were trying to travel. Several things stick in my mind a bit; the micro-theme activity from this morning, (I definitely want to use Don's "museum" activity in the future) the stimulating discussion following Marlene's wonderful presentation and the additional discussion following the activity of the afternoon (selecting a sentence that had meaning - great strategy). It was the exchange of thoughts and attitudes however, that I found most provocative and will continue to ponder throughout the evening. I could see the stress on Marlene's face as she talked of her life as a teacher at New Lex and I new she paid a price for caring. Not all teachers have the strength, stamina and love of students to tolerate the toll that is exacted on them by dealing with difficult students under difficult situations. Kudos to you, Marlene. I think that was the most memorable part of my day - considering her willingness to still show up every day and give her best to kids who need her, despite the toll it takes. You are the inspiration of my day, Marlene. Thanks for sharing.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
3 comments:
Merrilee, Just want to say thanks. I guess when you are in the situation everyday, you feel the stress, but you only think about what you are doing and what you need to do next. I think teaching is so different than when we were in school. It is so different from one year to the next. I wonder what my grandchildren will confront as a result of educational changes occurring today.We all face such tremendous stressful events everyday, but its good to be able to discuss and share with other teachers, especially ones not in the same district or school.
Well said! I think that thread we are all hearing in each person's sharing is how tough it is and yet how much passion everyone has for their work with the students.
Merrilee, I agree with you wholeheartedly on your praise of Marlene. We all face those difficult kids and situations, and somehow find the will to show up the next day. It is because we care, even when the kids themselves seem to not care. It was also a great lesson for me as a reading teacher. I have never thought of using debates in my classes before. I want to try that.
Post a Comment