Right now is probably the biggest time of transition within the entire year. I'm getting ready for the start of another year of teaching (year two!) with classes starting on Tuesday. Last night was our Open House which is kind of a meet and greet for the parents, students, and teachers. We had a pretty good turn out and it was fun to bust out my Spanish again.
I'll be teaching 6th - 8th grade Lit-Comp at Aurora Middle School in Minneapolis again: six sections, 84 students. Whew! It's sure to be intense and I have to completely shift my planning to a different mode than last year, but I am so pumped!
This weekend is also kick-off for the new year of the Dinkytown Campus Division. We're starting with dinner tonight, and kick-off from tonight through Sunday morning. Immediately afterwards, all 48 of us will simultaneously move into our new spaces! (That's like moving 8 community families all at the same time. Woot!) We're having four work sections in D'town again this year: Missionary, Action, Business, and Property Management. I'm in that last one and am so excited that I can hardly stand it! (Pictures to come.)
The Lord has given us so much good work to do. It's really an honor that He trusts us to execute it all. "The goal of this instruction is love that flows from a pure heart, from a clear conscience, and from a sincere faith." (I Tim 1:5) Come, Lord!!!
Showing posts with label Teaching. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Teaching. Show all posts
August 29, 2008
June 3, 2008
End of my First Year of Teaching
So, here I am, at the end of my last day of school. I don't know how it happened, but I do know that I continued to thrive throughout the craziness because of our gracious Father in Heaven. I have realized a few times this year how much I love teaching the Latino community. Last year in El Paso, I could see Mexico from my apartment, and it was a huge part of my life down there. Here's my 4th grade class:
This year, I was hired by a bilingual charter school in Minneapolis. For the first half of the year, I kept my abilities in Spanish under wraps from the kids because I wanted to challenge them. I have predominately used my Spanish in communication with the parents of my school. I had a great conversation with one of the staff members here who recently left the police force in Monte Rey, Mexico and came here. It's amazing what lives some of my young ones have led. Here's a picture of this year's 8th grade class, who graduated this past Saturday. (They're just a little bit bigger than last time.):
I am so blessed to have known these young people. Come, Lord, and bless their futures in return, those I will and won't see again. Prepare those whom I will be serving next year. Let Your Name be glorified in all things!
P.S. If you haven't heard already, I am leaving for Italy later on this week. I will be living and working in NW Italia for 6 weeks as a live-in nanny for an Italian family. I will probably be using this blog as a way of regularly posting updates for people to read. Come, Holy Spirit!
This year, I was hired by a bilingual charter school in Minneapolis. For the first half of the year, I kept my abilities in Spanish under wraps from the kids because I wanted to challenge them. I have predominately used my Spanish in communication with the parents of my school. I had a great conversation with one of the staff members here who recently left the police force in Monte Rey, Mexico and came here. It's amazing what lives some of my young ones have led. Here's a picture of this year's 8th grade class, who graduated this past Saturday. (They're just a little bit bigger than last time.):
I am so blessed to have known these young people. Come, Lord, and bless their futures in return, those I will and won't see again. Prepare those whom I will be serving next year. Let Your Name be glorified in all things!P.S. If you haven't heard already, I am leaving for Italy later on this week. I will be living and working in NW Italia for 6 weeks as a live-in nanny for an Italian family. I will probably be using this blog as a way of regularly posting updates for people to read. Come, Holy Spirit!
May 6, 2008
Declaration of Humanhood
Here is another piece of writing from one of my students. She is a very bright, outspoken, always-going-to-speak-her-mind young woman at age 13. Here's a glimpse:
Declaration of Humanhood
I hereby declare that I am human.
I am human in my joy and laughter, and I am human in my pain and tears. I am human in my need to love and help others, and in my need to be loved and helped by others. I am human in my dreams and accomplishments, but most of all I am human in my flaws and mistakes.
Being human, I am entitled to the following rights:
I am human in my joy and laughter, and I am human in my pain and tears. I am human in my need to love and help others, and in my need to be loved and helped by others. I am human in my dreams and accomplishments, but most of all I am human in my flaws and mistakes.
Being human, I am entitled to the following rights:
- I have the right to be imperfect.
- I have the right to make many (sometimes huge) mistakes.
- I have the right to learn from my mistakes and then move on with my life.
- I have the right to forgive myself.
- I have the right to feel what I feel.
- I have the right to laugh until it hurts, and cry until it stops hurting.
- I have the right to live as I choose.
- I have the right to happiness.
- I have the right to my own beliefs.
- I have the right to true friends and true love.
- I have the right to be loved by others.
- I have the right to be loved by me.
- I have the right to be who I want to be, not what others expect me or want me to be.
December 12, 2007
Aurora Middle School
As of November 29, I have officially completed teaching my first trimester of Language Arts at Aurora Middle School. So, we are well underway with trimester 2... and Christmas break is only seven days of school away! Here's a quick overview:
- I am teaching Middle School Language Arts to five sections of students: two sections of 6th grade, two of 7th, and one of 8th. Every morning we have homeroom for 15 minutes and I have the privilege of having the 8th graders. They are an amazing class of young men and women and must be described as resilient. They have been through far more in their first 14 years of life than most people. They were the premier class, and have always been
- My school is a bilingual charter school. For our school, the younger grades are taught in Spanish and they gradually are introduced to more English. So, by the time they get to me in Middle School everything is in English. The practical side of things is to get them ready for high school. It's pretty cool being able to teach in English to a bunch of kids who are all bilingual.
- I haven't had the need to use my Spanish a ton, but it's still helpful. I teach completely in English, but I am surrounded by Spanish all day. The times when "Spanish situations" come up are mostly when communicating with parents.
- I am teaching Middle School Language Arts to five sections of students: two sections of 6th grade, two of 7th, and one of 8th. Every morning we have homeroom for 15 minutes and I have the privilege of having the 8th graders. They are an amazing class of young men and women and must be described as resilient. They have been through far more in their first 14 years of life than most people. They were the premier class, and have always been
- My school is a bilingual charter school. For our school, the younger grades are taught in Spanish and they gradually are introduced to more English. So, by the time they get to me in Middle School everything is in English. The practical side of things is to get them ready for high school. It's pretty cool being able to teach in English to a bunch of kids who are all bilingual.
- I haven't had the need to use my Spanish a ton, but it's still helpful. I teach completely in English, but I am surrounded by Spanish all day. The times when "Spanish situations" come up are mostly when communicating with parents.
Teaching in China, July 2007
Whew! Let me think back to five months ago. There's no way that I'll remember everything, but here's a glimpse into that month of my life.
I went to teach English in Zibo (tzee-bwah), China with my friend Sara Honetschlager from Morris. I was literally living on the other side of the world, with a 13 hour time difference. We spent our first couple days here in the huge city of Beijing (population around 15 million). We spent one day in the Forbidden City and at Tianamen Square. On the Fourth of July we hiked the Great Wall of China. We were only there for a couple of hours, but man was I beat! There are certain points along the wall where you can begin to climb. From where we were, you could go in either direction. I led the charge of 6 other people up the more difficult side. Whew! The steps were designed to make it difficult to climb for invading armies: they did a good job! Each step is at a different height ranging from a few inches to two feet. What a work out, but the view was worth it!
Zibo is a city of about 4.15 million, but is only considered to be a "medium-sized". I created an American-style classroom. I even had my students recite the Pledge of Allegiance every morning! Luckily my advocating "liberty and justice for all" did not get me into any trouble in this communist, socialist country! :) I taught twenty-two students all about 8 - 9 years old (2nd - 3rd grade). It was quite a bit harder than I had anticipated actually, but we had lots of fun. Some highlights: bonfires, teaching dance in the studio, nature walks, teaching about Oregon, playing Field Games, BINGO, crazy Olympics, puddle jumping, talent night, having two dresses custom made for me, and literally stopping traffic because the drivers were staring at me! (It was beyond crazy.)
On the first day of school, I gave my students all English names. By the end of the month, they gave me a Chinese one! So, my name is Man Yu Jie. Chinese names are reverse of ours, so I'll start the explanation from the right. I told them Karen meant "pure one", so my first name is "Jie" = "purity". My second name (Yu) means jade, as in the stone. My "family name" is taken from Coleman, and it (Man) means "full". So, I guess you could say that I am "filled with purity and a little jade on the side". :) I like it!
The food took some getting used to and I was sick for a good while, but eventually I adjusted to the idea of having Chinese food 3 times a day for a month. They eat the same types of food for breakfast as they do for lunch and dinner! It was super difficult to be away from my life here in MN, especially my new roommates. But technology was a blessing, and this was clearly where the Lord wanted me for this month. Glory!
I went to teach English in Zibo (tzee-bwah), China with my friend Sara Honetschlager from Morris. I was literally living on the other side of the world, with a 13 hour time difference. We spent our first couple days here in the huge city of Beijing (population around 15 million). We spent one day in the Forbidden City and at Tianamen Square. On the Fourth of July we hiked the Great Wall of China. We were only there for a couple of hours, but man was I beat! There are certain points along the wall where you can begin to climb. From where we were, you could go in either direction. I led the charge of 6 other people up the more difficult side. Whew! The steps were designed to make it difficult to climb for invading armies: they did a good job! Each step is at a different height ranging from a few inches to two feet. What a work out, but the view was worth it!
Zibo is a city of about 4.15 million, but is only considered to be a "medium-sized". I created an American-style classroom. I even had my students recite the Pledge of Allegiance every morning! Luckily my advocating "liberty and justice for all" did not get me into any trouble in this communist, socialist country! :) I taught twenty-two students all about 8 - 9 years old (2nd - 3rd grade). It was quite a bit harder than I had anticipated actually, but we had lots of fun. Some highlights: bonfires, teaching dance in the studio, nature walks, teaching about Oregon, playing Field Games, BINGO, crazy Olympics, puddle jumping, talent night, having two dresses custom made for me, and literally stopping traffic because the drivers were staring at me! (It was beyond crazy.)
On the first day of school, I gave my students all English names. By the end of the month, they gave me a Chinese one! So, my name is Man Yu Jie. Chinese names are reverse of ours, so I'll start the explanation from the right. I told them Karen meant "pure one", so my first name is "Jie" = "purity". My second name (Yu) means jade, as in the stone. My "family name" is taken from Coleman, and it (Man) means "full". So, I guess you could say that I am "filled with purity and a little jade on the side". :) I like it!
The food took some getting used to and I was sick for a good while, but eventually I adjusted to the idea of having Chinese food 3 times a day for a month. They eat the same types of food for breakfast as they do for lunch and dinner! It was super difficult to be away from my life here in MN, especially my new roommates. But technology was a blessing, and this was clearly where the Lord wanted me for this month. Glory!
June 7, 2007
Scandihoovia Trip and Future Plans
Three days after I graduated from UMM, I had an interview at Aurora Charter School in Minneapolis (follow link). It's a bilingual charter school, with a 99% Latino student body of all native speakers of Spanish. The interview went very well and the next day I left for Europe with 40 others from my Concert Choir.
Our tour first took us to Norway, which was beautiful. We were able to tour in Bergen, Alesund, Lillehammer, Otto, and Oslo. Well, you can't very well go to Norway and NOT see the fjords, so that is exactly what we did. It was not an infrequent experience for us to have to take a ferry across a fjord in between cities. We were also able to take a 1.5 hour long ferry ride throughout the Geiranger Fjord, the second largest fjord in Norway. We started inland and worked our way out to another mountain town. It was a great time of year to be there, because the melting snow caused the waterfalls to be spectacular. I could go on and on, but you'll just have to ask me to tell you more when you see me next. :) Lots of Scandinavia is covered in forests and their buildings are made out of wood. That is also why the countries have burned down a few times. Here's what Norway looks like (city view of Alesund, a bit o' climbing, the Geiranger Fjord, and having fun in Lillehammer):
While I was in Oslo, I got an e-mail from Aurora offering me a teaching position for Language Arts, grades 6 - 8. I am super excited and this is an amazing way that the Lord has continued to bless me. It was fun to celebrate having a job in Europe as well!
After a couple of days in Goteborg, Sweden, we moved onto Copenhagen, Denmark. It is such a beautiful city! My father has been to Denmark four times (once with my mom), and my oldest sister Sarah studied abroad there as well. It was fun to finally be there myself and explore the beautiful streets with friends. Here's a peek at Denmark (buildings near the Nyborg canal, with the Little Mermaid statue):
Then, we went back to Sweden, where we were able to tour Linkoping and Stockolm. I really enjoyed Sweden, it's just a beautiful country. The feeling of landscape that I get from all of these countries is if you were to combine Minnesota with Oregon (at the latitude of Anchorage, Alaska). That's the best description I can give. While we were in Stockholm, we were able to stay in a hostel that was on a boat (two actually)! We pretty much had both boats to ourselves... it was great. Take a gander at Sweden (Stockholm, bikes everywhere, a token "singing" picture, and a picture with my director at our last dinner):
We finished off our tour in Iceland. After spending a night in Reykjavik, we headed to the Blue Lagoon for a few hours. Since Iceland is a volcanic island, there are many natural, hot, mineral springs. The Blue Lagoon is basically a 2 acre hot tub in its natural setting. It is unlike anything I had ever seen, and it was a great way to end our Scandia adventure. Here's a final picture of that (notice the swimmers heads peeking out of the steamy water by the bridge):
So, now I am back in the states, anxious to start planning for this upcoming year. I moved into Dinkytown last night (at the Parsonage) and am very excited for everything that the Lord has in store for me. China will take up my entire month of July and then the school year will be here before we know it. Only this time, I'll be starting it as a teacher! Yes, I'm a bit nervous / scared, but I also know that I am ready, which makes me excited. Lord, come in power!
Our tour first took us to Norway, which was beautiful. We were able to tour in Bergen, Alesund, Lillehammer, Otto, and Oslo. Well, you can't very well go to Norway and NOT see the fjords, so that is exactly what we did. It was not an infrequent experience for us to have to take a ferry across a fjord in between cities. We were also able to take a 1.5 hour long ferry ride throughout the Geiranger Fjord, the second largest fjord in Norway. We started inland and worked our way out to another mountain town. It was a great time of year to be there, because the melting snow caused the waterfalls to be spectacular. I could go on and on, but you'll just have to ask me to tell you more when you see me next. :) Lots of Scandinavia is covered in forests and their buildings are made out of wood. That is also why the countries have burned down a few times. Here's what Norway looks like (city view of Alesund, a bit o' climbing, the Geiranger Fjord, and having fun in Lillehammer):
While I was in Oslo, I got an e-mail from Aurora offering me a teaching position for Language Arts, grades 6 - 8. I am super excited and this is an amazing way that the Lord has continued to bless me. It was fun to celebrate having a job in Europe as well!
After a couple of days in Goteborg, Sweden, we moved onto Copenhagen, Denmark. It is such a beautiful city! My father has been to Denmark four times (once with my mom), and my oldest sister Sarah studied abroad there as well. It was fun to finally be there myself and explore the beautiful streets with friends. Here's a peek at Denmark (buildings near the Nyborg canal, with the Little Mermaid statue):
Then, we went back to Sweden, where we were able to tour Linkoping and Stockolm. I really enjoyed Sweden, it's just a beautiful country. The feeling of landscape that I get from all of these countries is if you were to combine Minnesota with Oregon (at the latitude of Anchorage, Alaska). That's the best description I can give. While we were in Stockholm, we were able to stay in a hostel that was on a boat (two actually)! We pretty much had both boats to ourselves... it was great. Take a gander at Sweden (Stockholm, bikes everywhere, a token "singing" picture, and a picture with my director at our last dinner):
We finished off our tour in Iceland. After spending a night in Reykjavik, we headed to the Blue Lagoon for a few hours. Since Iceland is a volcanic island, there are many natural, hot, mineral springs. The Blue Lagoon is basically a 2 acre hot tub in its natural setting. It is unlike anything I had ever seen, and it was a great way to end our Scandia adventure. Here's a final picture of that (notice the swimmers heads peeking out of the steamy water by the bridge):
So, now I am back in the states, anxious to start planning for this upcoming year. I moved into Dinkytown last night (at the Parsonage) and am very excited for everything that the Lord has in store for me. China will take up my entire month of July and then the school year will be here before we know it. Only this time, I'll be starting it as a teacher! Yes, I'm a bit nervous / scared, but I also know that I am ready, which makes me excited. Lord, come in power!
April 28, 2007
A Decision...
"Don't be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God... Having gifts differing according to the grace that was given to us... or service, let us give ourselves to service; or he who teaches, to his teaching... he who gives, let him do it with zeal... Abhor that which is evil. Cling to that which is good. In love of the brothers be tenderly affectionate one to another; in honor preferring one another; not lagging in diligence; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord; rejoicing in hope; enduring in troubles; continuing steadfastly in prayer; contributing to the needs of the saints; given to hospitality." (Rom 12:2,6 - 13)
I spent a good chunk of time this week in prayer, which is always a good thing. But this week, I was very specific in my thoughts and intentions to the Lord. I wanted to know if the Father was sending me to China for a month this summer to teach. I asked Him for a word when I was at Eucharistic Adoration, and the above passage is what I received.
The short version? I'm going!!! The above passage seemed very directed towards the desires of my heart and where the Lord is calling me. I am beyond excited! I also found out yesterday that the final cost to us volunteers is going to be a grand total of $500 for about a month. This includes our transportation (flight and travel within China), accommodations, tour fees, and our meals. More details to come soon. I can NOT believe that I'm going to teach English in China for a month. The program we're working with is connected to Concordia Language Villages, so it's a pretty prestigious / well-established deal. That brings my travel tally to an all time high = FIVE other countries over the summer (plus, I was just in Mexico). The Lord is ever loving!
I spent a good chunk of time this week in prayer, which is always a good thing. But this week, I was very specific in my thoughts and intentions to the Lord. I wanted to know if the Father was sending me to China for a month this summer to teach. I asked Him for a word when I was at Eucharistic Adoration, and the above passage is what I received.
The short version? I'm going!!! The above passage seemed very directed towards the desires of my heart and where the Lord is calling me. I am beyond excited! I also found out yesterday that the final cost to us volunteers is going to be a grand total of $500 for about a month. This includes our transportation (flight and travel within China), accommodations, tour fees, and our meals. More details to come soon. I can NOT believe that I'm going to teach English in China for a month. The program we're working with is connected to Concordia Language Villages, so it's a pretty prestigious / well-established deal. That brings my travel tally to an all time high = FIVE other countries over the summer (plus, I was just in Mexico). The Lord is ever loving!
April 24, 2007
To China or not to China, that is the question...
Greetings from Morris! I'm back at it, full throttle for the next 2.5 weeks. Yesterday was the job fair. It went well, I got better at selling myself in 30 seconds, and I even had a couple of impromptu interviews. Come Lord! We drove back to Mo-town yesterday afternoon and stayed up until 3:30 am last night catching up with friends. The perfect way to spend an evening before our 8:00 am class this morning. :) Gotta' love it! Job hunt is still going strong, but there is something very pressing I would like some opinions on.
It's another discernment issue. My really good friend Sara (from UMM) just finished her student teaching at Burnsville High. Short version: one of the teachers she collaborated with has been working with schools in China to put on an English summer camp. It takes place in the month of July and they're in the process of selecting their summer staff. She's going. Bottom line? They've pretty much asked me if I would like to go to China for a month and teach English to students over there. In fact, it's a highly desired position (there are only 10 spots), and they've reserved a spot for me to go. The cost of the trip would be somewhere between $500 - $1000, including room, board, airfare, and some other expenses. We have to cover our visa, spending money, and very little else. A month... in China... for just that?!?!? It's a pretty sweet offer.
But, I'm already going abroad in May. Could I really go to China as well? Money is an issue: I would probably end up writing letters looking for people to sponsor me to teach. Time is also an issue: can I afford to be out of the country for another month of my job hunting time? Pretty much all of it is online, really. It's more a matter of interviewing in July. There's probably other factors as well, but my brain only got that far.
I need some advice. What do you think I should do? The Lord brought this to me... it is quite literally the opportunity of a lifetime. But, just because it's an option doesn't mean that I am supposed to do it. My heart is in it. I really think that I can raise the money and stay on top of the job hunt from abroad. I think that it would be extremely beneficial to travel to a non-Western European country and bring what I learn into my classroom. Plus, it's teaching... in my specialty area! So, please help me out and leave a comment or shoot me an e-mail. God bless and I'm very anxious to see what y'all think. I would like to make a decision by the end of the week. Come, Lord, make Your Will clearly known to me.
It's another discernment issue. My really good friend Sara (from UMM) just finished her student teaching at Burnsville High. Short version: one of the teachers she collaborated with has been working with schools in China to put on an English summer camp. It takes place in the month of July and they're in the process of selecting their summer staff. She's going. Bottom line? They've pretty much asked me if I would like to go to China for a month and teach English to students over there. In fact, it's a highly desired position (there are only 10 spots), and they've reserved a spot for me to go. The cost of the trip would be somewhere between $500 - $1000, including room, board, airfare, and some other expenses. We have to cover our visa, spending money, and very little else. A month... in China... for just that?!?!? It's a pretty sweet offer.
But, I'm already going abroad in May. Could I really go to China as well? Money is an issue: I would probably end up writing letters looking for people to sponsor me to teach. Time is also an issue: can I afford to be out of the country for another month of my job hunting time? Pretty much all of it is online, really. It's more a matter of interviewing in July. There's probably other factors as well, but my brain only got that far.
I need some advice. What do you think I should do? The Lord brought this to me... it is quite literally the opportunity of a lifetime. But, just because it's an option doesn't mean that I am supposed to do it. My heart is in it. I really think that I can raise the money and stay on top of the job hunt from abroad. I think that it would be extremely beneficial to travel to a non-Western European country and bring what I learn into my classroom. Plus, it's teaching... in my specialty area! So, please help me out and leave a comment or shoot me an e-mail. God bless and I'm very anxious to see what y'all think. I would like to make a decision by the end of the week. Come, Lord, make Your Will clearly known to me.
April 9, 2007
Realization
Dear Lord, help me to spread thy fragrance everywhere I go.
Flood my soul with Thy Spirit and life.
Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of Thine.
Shine through me, and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Thy presence in my soul.
Let them look up and see no longer me but only Thee, O Lord!
Stay with me, and then I shall begin to shine as Thou shinest, so to shine as to be a light to others.
The light, O Lord, will be all from Thee, none of it will be mine;
It will be Thou, shining on others through me.
Let me praise Thee in the way Thou dost love best, by shining on those around me.
Let me preach Thee without preaching, not by words but by my example, by the catching force, the sympathetic influence of what I do, the evident fullness of the love my heart bears to thee.
Flood my soul with Thy Spirit and life.
Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of Thine.
Shine through me, and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Thy presence in my soul.
Let them look up and see no longer me but only Thee, O Lord!
Stay with me, and then I shall begin to shine as Thou shinest, so to shine as to be a light to others.
The light, O Lord, will be all from Thee, none of it will be mine;
It will be Thou, shining on others through me.
Let me praise Thee in the way Thou dost love best, by shining on those around me.
Let me preach Thee without preaching, not by words but by my example, by the catching force, the sympathetic influence of what I do, the evident fullness of the love my heart bears to thee.
~ Cardinal John Henry Newman
In addition to my job hunt which is well underway, I am also trying to use this month at home to start going through my room at my parents. I don't know for SURE what I am doing next year, but I do know that I most likely will not be living at my parents any more. I had this tacked up on my bulletin board with a couple of other prayers, and I had forgotten how much I loved this! It kind of echoes what I feel is the mindset I highlighted in my "Revolution of Love" post. I want to be open to whatever the Lord has in store for me and my future. He is my life-blood, my all. My existence means nothing without His, and I want to be the little tool, the little pencil that we uses in the world. I don't know whether or not He will use me for "big things" or "small things", but that's not the point. I want Him to use me for "His things", whatever that may be: His work in this world to further the existence of His Kingdom.
I am really excited for next year, and things are just starting to give me a glimpse of what life may be shaping up to be. This has been my time to really start in on my job hunt. I have 2 weeks left to really maximize on my free time before life speeds way up again. Next week I am going to Dinkytown to check out household life there, so I'm trying to make this week count for all that it's worth. I think I've got a list of about 32 openings for full-time teachers next year. I want to have my applications for all of them sent out by the end of the week, so I've got my work cut out for me! Plus, it's early for schools to be posting, so hopefully there's a lot more on the way. Keep me in your prayers!
Speaking of prayers for job hunts, here's a quick update on my Dad's situation. His round two, finalist interview was on Holy Thursday and it sounds like it went very well. We're hoping to hear within the next week or so. I appreciate all of the prayers more than you know, and I'll definitely keep y'all in the loop.
I am really excited for next year, and things are just starting to give me a glimpse of what life may be shaping up to be. This has been my time to really start in on my job hunt. I have 2 weeks left to really maximize on my free time before life speeds way up again. Next week I am going to Dinkytown to check out household life there, so I'm trying to make this week count for all that it's worth. I think I've got a list of about 32 openings for full-time teachers next year. I want to have my applications for all of them sent out by the end of the week, so I've got my work cut out for me! Plus, it's early for schools to be posting, so hopefully there's a lot more on the way. Keep me in your prayers!
Speaking of prayers for job hunts, here's a quick update on my Dad's situation. His round two, finalist interview was on Holy Thursday and it sounds like it went very well. We're hoping to hear within the next week or so. I appreciate all of the prayers more than you know, and I'll definitely keep y'all in the loop.
March 30, 2007
Stephen Froiland
I received an e-mail today informing many of the alumni of Trinity at River Ridge that former art teacher Stephen Froiland passed away on Tuesday. To me, this proved to be quite the shock. He had been living with Crohn's disease for years and liver cancer apparently. From the sounds of it, I think the family knew it was coming... but I didn't. Needless to say, it shook me up. He was my art teacher at the end of my Trinity career and he was the one who helped me come into my own as an artist. I accomplished more than I could under his guidance. Seeing his passion in the classroom every day was a true inspiration of the power that creating visual art could have on one's life.
I developed my love of Bougereau, Waterhouse, and Leighton because of him. He encouraged me in my creativity and gumption within my own art form. He gave me ideas and ways to explore them. I still have a work that I have been piddling with since my senior year that he helped me with. (For those in my class, does "siren" ring a bell?) I have so many memories of discussions and true encouragement from him. Even after graduating, I would look forward to the conversations that I could have with him in the hallways during quick visits. He always encouraged me to keep painting, drawing, and creating art... and I have. It has been an outlet for emotions of all kinds: a way to grieve, a support to others, a celebration of joy, an expression of longing, an honoring for loved ones, and a transfer of feelings that can't be expressed in words.
He was an amazing artist and I always regretted the fact that I was never able to visit his rented studio space that was located near one of my favorite coffee shops. (Jeremy, I think it was by Black Dog Cafe.) So, I honor him for his passion in life for art, teaching, working with ambitious teenagers, his courage, and his steadfastness. I hope to be able to affect the lives of my own students as he affected mine. In his short forty-five years of life, he was able to accomplish so much.
As I write this, I am listening to the soundtrack of "The Mission". For some reason, it has occasionally reminded me of him. (Not the songs of impending doom, the serene ones.) Now it seems more appropriate than ever. The romantic, classical quality of the score just tears at your heart strings. It relays this mix of joy and sorrow, as does this time surrounding his death. He is with His Lord now, and is freed from the suffering that he endured for so many years. The tears stream down my face and yet I rejoice in the knowledge that he is finally resting at peace. Thank you for everything that you have taught me, Steve, you will be dearly missed.
I developed my love of Bougereau, Waterhouse, and Leighton because of him. He encouraged me in my creativity and gumption within my own art form. He gave me ideas and ways to explore them. I still have a work that I have been piddling with since my senior year that he helped me with. (For those in my class, does "siren" ring a bell?) I have so many memories of discussions and true encouragement from him. Even after graduating, I would look forward to the conversations that I could have with him in the hallways during quick visits. He always encouraged me to keep painting, drawing, and creating art... and I have. It has been an outlet for emotions of all kinds: a way to grieve, a support to others, a celebration of joy, an expression of longing, an honoring for loved ones, and a transfer of feelings that can't be expressed in words.
He was an amazing artist and I always regretted the fact that I was never able to visit his rented studio space that was located near one of my favorite coffee shops. (Jeremy, I think it was by Black Dog Cafe.) So, I honor him for his passion in life for art, teaching, working with ambitious teenagers, his courage, and his steadfastness. I hope to be able to affect the lives of my own students as he affected mine. In his short forty-five years of life, he was able to accomplish so much.
As I write this, I am listening to the soundtrack of "The Mission". For some reason, it has occasionally reminded me of him. (Not the songs of impending doom, the serene ones.) Now it seems more appropriate than ever. The romantic, classical quality of the score just tears at your heart strings. It relays this mix of joy and sorrow, as does this time surrounding his death. He is with His Lord now, and is freed from the suffering that he endured for so many years. The tears stream down my face and yet I rejoice in the knowledge that he is finally resting at peace. Thank you for everything that you have taught me, Steve, you will be dearly missed.
March 29, 2007
Planned Part is Over!
It's been great being back in Minnesota. It was such a joy-filled time to be able to be at the Community Meeting on Sunday and see everyone once again. The week has been good, very relaxing, and somewhat productive. After running around at a super high fast pace for the last three months, I'm trying to figure out how this slow-paced life at home works. I still want to be productive and there's a LOT that I want to accomplish during this time. I am now pretty much certified as a real, live teacher. Woo hoo! So, that means I need to find a teaching job for next year. That is what this month is about primarily. (I am in the Twin Cities for a month. I will head back up to Morris for the last three weeks of the semester, graduate, home for 3 days, and then head to Scandinavia for 2.5 weeks. Wow!) But, besides that month and a half spanning mid-April to the end of May, this ends the "planned part of my life". College is done, living situation is being investigated, jobs are being pursued, etc... That's a weird realization.
Since I've been back, I have finished my first draft of my resume and am starting on cover letters today. I have my eye on some different job posting sites, but will also be keeping track on individual school districts. I suppose I should insert some more details here. I have a few (loose) criteria for life next year. I need to be in a location where there is a branch of the People of Praise (any branch). Four years being away from a branch is more than enough for me! I feel the Lord is calling me to teach next year, most likely in a full-time teaching position where I have my own classroom. (Well, at this stage in the game, that's what I would like.) I would really like to live in some sort of a household with other singles or a family. And, I want to be more involved in the City-Building, Missionary lifestyle. I have been involved, and I consider myself to be a missionary already, no matter where I am. But I want to take that and make it my all... every day of my life, my mission in life.
So, as a result of all of these elements, I believe that I will most likely be in the Twin Cities metro area next year. This is exciting to realize and I'm finally starting to get glimpses of what life could be next year. I have talked to numerous people about this, and it seems pretty clear that this is where the Lord is calling me for now. In addition to that foundational call, it's even more exciting for many reasons: I grew up here, but haven't really come into my own as a full member of this branch; my family and so many of my friends are here (inside and outside People of Praise); there are many possibilities for household life here; my teaching licenture is in the state of MN, so no re-licenture is necessary; there are many districts and types of schools to pursue employment opportunities in, I'm not limited to one or two districts.
Many things are unknown, but it's all quite exciting. Even though this is the end of the "planned part", I know that Someone Else has an even greater plan for my life. That's all I need to know in order to have peace and trust in Him. Amen!
Since I've been back, I have finished my first draft of my resume and am starting on cover letters today. I have my eye on some different job posting sites, but will also be keeping track on individual school districts. I suppose I should insert some more details here. I have a few (loose) criteria for life next year. I need to be in a location where there is a branch of the People of Praise (any branch). Four years being away from a branch is more than enough for me! I feel the Lord is calling me to teach next year, most likely in a full-time teaching position where I have my own classroom. (Well, at this stage in the game, that's what I would like.) I would really like to live in some sort of a household with other singles or a family. And, I want to be more involved in the City-Building, Missionary lifestyle. I have been involved, and I consider myself to be a missionary already, no matter where I am. But I want to take that and make it my all... every day of my life, my mission in life.
So, as a result of all of these elements, I believe that I will most likely be in the Twin Cities metro area next year. This is exciting to realize and I'm finally starting to get glimpses of what life could be next year. I have talked to numerous people about this, and it seems pretty clear that this is where the Lord is calling me for now. In addition to that foundational call, it's even more exciting for many reasons: I grew up here, but haven't really come into my own as a full member of this branch; my family and so many of my friends are here (inside and outside People of Praise); there are many possibilities for household life here; my teaching licenture is in the state of MN, so no re-licenture is necessary; there are many districts and types of schools to pursue employment opportunities in, I'm not limited to one or two districts.
Many things are unknown, but it's all quite exciting. Even though this is the end of the "planned part", I know that Someone Else has an even greater plan for my life. That's all I need to know in order to have peace and trust in Him. Amen!
March 27, 2007
Way Overdue
I apologize for the severe lack of posts lately... it has been crazy chaotic and then sleep took over. Such is life! If you don't know already, i write this from the homeland of Minnesota. I don't think I ever realized how much I enjoy being able to come back to this beautiful state until I flew from the desert into this land filled with lakes and trees. Yes, El Paso has mountains, but still doesn't win my heart over completely. So, it is good to be back. However, it wasn't an easy last couple of days with my students.
I have really created a strong bond with my students in El Paso, my first real class that I've ever had where I felt that they were mine. This responsibility for them was obviously in the classroom, but it also spread to all parts of their lives (as it should). I wanted to figure out a way to say goodbye to these little people who have been my purpose and my livelihood over the past three months. I decided I would write each one of them a letter. I was able to get most of the twenty hand-written letters finished over Spring Break. However, I saved the ones that would be the hardest to write until the end. I had intended my students to bring them home and read them there, after we had already said goodbye.
I prepared myself for a fun, but assuredly emotional day on Friday and that's what I had. Short version: they ended up reading their letters at the end of the day as I passed them out. Some of them began to cry because of the truly heart-felt and encouraging notes that I had given them. They came up to hug me ("Group Hug!") and I started crying because they were crying. And because I was crying, even more of them started crying! I know, it was indeed a vicious circle of love. :) I would bet that within that last half hour of Friday when we said our goodbyes, that at least 3/4 of my students cried. I guess I know that they love me and I hope that also means that I made a difference within these few months.
During these few months, I really bonded with a few of my boys, often times the bigger trouble-makers out of the group. They need stability and to learn responsibility, so I admit that I gave them a bit more attention. I took the time to individually pull aside the three who I grew closest to at the end of Friday: Ricardo, Alfonso, and Angel. I reiterated some of what I had written to them in their letters, and it is certainly a tall order: "Promise me that you will always take the time to make good decisions. Never take the easy way out, because it's never worth it. Don't ever let anyone push you around and don't ever push anyone else around. Promise that you will always be a gentleman. Never let your anger get the best of you. Don't fight with others. You know that you're better than than, and I know that. Now show them that you're better than that. Choose your friends carefully and help each other make good decisions. Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. Work hard, and you can do whatever you set your mind to."
So, I hope they stay in touch. These are the ones whose futures I am slightly concerned about, but I think they'll be ok. Well, I pray they'll be ok. God has taken care of them this far into their little lives, He's always got them in His sight. So, after some tears and more hugs than I can count to my kids, I did what I came to Texas to do. I taught them everything I could (not just academic content either), I spent time with them, I loved them, and then I let them go. It was a great three months and I will never forget them, my first real class. Here's some pictures:
Here's some of my kids playing a Spelling game to review for their test. Sparkle, anyone? It was great fun and we're clearly having fun.
This is Angel. You'll notice the tears visibly streaming down his face. And yes, I was crying too. But, the picture taken immediately before this one was too sad to post. He's bawling. It's the saddest picture I've probably ever seen.
This is my class... well, almost all of them. Pretty cute, hunh? That's Alfonso with the attitude standing on his desk upper right. Ricardo is the one lurking in the background. I miss them already and love them tons. Father, watch over them and bless their futures. Give them the strength that they'll need to follow You and make good decisions each day. Amen!
I have really created a strong bond with my students in El Paso, my first real class that I've ever had where I felt that they were mine. This responsibility for them was obviously in the classroom, but it also spread to all parts of their lives (as it should). I wanted to figure out a way to say goodbye to these little people who have been my purpose and my livelihood over the past three months. I decided I would write each one of them a letter. I was able to get most of the twenty hand-written letters finished over Spring Break. However, I saved the ones that would be the hardest to write until the end. I had intended my students to bring them home and read them there, after we had already said goodbye.
I prepared myself for a fun, but assuredly emotional day on Friday and that's what I had. Short version: they ended up reading their letters at the end of the day as I passed them out. Some of them began to cry because of the truly heart-felt and encouraging notes that I had given them. They came up to hug me ("Group Hug!") and I started crying because they were crying. And because I was crying, even more of them started crying! I know, it was indeed a vicious circle of love. :) I would bet that within that last half hour of Friday when we said our goodbyes, that at least 3/4 of my students cried. I guess I know that they love me and I hope that also means that I made a difference within these few months.
During these few months, I really bonded with a few of my boys, often times the bigger trouble-makers out of the group. They need stability and to learn responsibility, so I admit that I gave them a bit more attention. I took the time to individually pull aside the three who I grew closest to at the end of Friday: Ricardo, Alfonso, and Angel. I reiterated some of what I had written to them in their letters, and it is certainly a tall order: "Promise me that you will always take the time to make good decisions. Never take the easy way out, because it's never worth it. Don't ever let anyone push you around and don't ever push anyone else around. Promise that you will always be a gentleman. Never let your anger get the best of you. Don't fight with others. You know that you're better than than, and I know that. Now show them that you're better than that. Choose your friends carefully and help each other make good decisions. Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something. Work hard, and you can do whatever you set your mind to."
So, I hope they stay in touch. These are the ones whose futures I am slightly concerned about, but I think they'll be ok. Well, I pray they'll be ok. God has taken care of them this far into their little lives, He's always got them in His sight. So, after some tears and more hugs than I can count to my kids, I did what I came to Texas to do. I taught them everything I could (not just academic content either), I spent time with them, I loved them, and then I let them go. It was a great three months and I will never forget them, my first real class. Here's some pictures:
Here's some of my kids playing a Spelling game to review for their test. Sparkle, anyone? It was great fun and we're clearly having fun.
This is Angel. You'll notice the tears visibly streaming down his face. And yes, I was crying too. But, the picture taken immediately before this one was too sad to post. He's bawling. It's the saddest picture I've probably ever seen.
This is my class... well, almost all of them. Pretty cute, hunh? That's Alfonso with the attitude standing on his desk upper right. Ricardo is the one lurking in the background. I miss them already and love them tons. Father, watch over them and bless their futures. Give them the strength that they'll need to follow You and make good decisions each day. Amen!March 22, 2007
A Bribe
So, today was my second to last day in my classroom. Many of my student have been quite vocal about not wanting me to leave. One of my boys who is a bit of a trouble-maker came up to me this morning and said "Miss Coleman, why can't you stay? I want you to. If you stay, I promise I won't be bad any more. I'll be good!" Something like that just breaks my heart, how can it not?! (His behavior has actually improved drastically within my time here through meetings with his grandma (his legal guardian) to get all of us on the same page.) Tomorrow will be an interesting and emotionally-draining day, I am sure.
By the way, here's a story from Nightline that I just saw... interesting indeed. http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=2935819&page=1
By the way, here's a story from Nightline that I just saw... interesting indeed. http://abcnews.go.com/Nightline/story?id=2935819&page=1
March 9, 2007
Six Flags Over Texas
As I previously mentioned, this week I have been teaching (and learning) about the Texas Revolution. Next week is the Alamo! So, we were having a discussion about it today and its relation to the Texas state flag. Anyways, my teacher brought up the information about where Six Flags (yes, the amusement park) got its name from. There are many Six Flags, but the first was in Arlington Texas and its full name is "Six Flags Over Texas". It derives its name from the SIX national flags that have flown over the state of Texas. Six! The lovely line-up of this national identity crisis in the making goes: France, Spain, Mexico, Republic of Texas, United States of America, and the Confederate States of America (and then back to the USA). Gotta' love that Texas pride! (Yes, it's a different world over here.)
After our field trip on Wednesday, we went to a park near the school for lunch and to play. I ended up reffing my first football game ever. It was pretty hot out (it's been in the mid to upper 70s all week). So, I borrowed my Ninah's baseball cap... Texas Longhorns! So, I'm running around with my kids, yelling, laughing, having a great time, in jeans, a T-shirt, hair in a pony tail, Texas Longhorns baseball cap on my head. "Do I look like I belong in Texas now?" "Yeah, Miss Coleman, you look cool!" "You look different!" :) It was quite fun. We got back to school and I was still wearing the cap. I ran into one of my roommates in the hallway and she said she didn't even recognize me! Well, I guess I don't wear that many baseball hats, especially not with my professional teaching wardrobe. Almost the weekend!
After our field trip on Wednesday, we went to a park near the school for lunch and to play. I ended up reffing my first football game ever. It was pretty hot out (it's been in the mid to upper 70s all week). So, I borrowed my Ninah's baseball cap... Texas Longhorns! So, I'm running around with my kids, yelling, laughing, having a great time, in jeans, a T-shirt, hair in a pony tail, Texas Longhorns baseball cap on my head. "Do I look like I belong in Texas now?" "Yeah, Miss Coleman, you look cool!" "You look different!" :) It was quite fun. We got back to school and I was still wearing the cap. I ran into one of my roommates in the hallway and she said she didn't even recognize me! Well, I guess I don't wear that many baseball hats, especially not with my professional teaching wardrobe. Almost the weekend!
March 7, 2007
Thin Line between Trust and Mistrust
We went on a field trip today called "Kids, Kows, and More" it was pretty fun to experience with them and an amazingly gorgeous day outside. (I even got my first sunburn of the year... gotta' love this complexion!) :) It's funny to come from Morris, the land where cows live next to the football fields and horse stables. Some of these kids had never been that close to cows before! I don't think I had realized how much I actually know about agriculture while being a city girl. I guess that happens when Mom grew up on a farm, Grandpa Bell raised hogs and other animals, my uncle Larry still farms in Iowa, my uncle Mark has an acreage with horses and and hay crops in Washington, and 3 of my cousins (Mike, Bill, and Tony) run their own Millenkamp Cattle Company. I guess going to Morris helps, too.
As I have mentioned before, I have started to really bond with some of my students. Some of my boys who like to cause a stir are actually the same ones who have been working their ways into my heart. The thing about bonding with students when I'm only gonna' be here for 2 more weeks is that I get attached. Because I have emotionally invested in my kids, it sometimes gets complicated. I trust them through that bond, but today that was tested. I found out at lunch today that two of my favorite boys apparently beat up another boy from a different section of 4th grade. Obviously I was upset to hear this and surprised nothing had been mentioned. So, I casually asked one of the offenders if anything happened after school. "No." "There's not anything you want to talk about or tell me?" (confused look) "No. Why, what happened?" "I heard that there may have been a confrontation between you, Alfonso, and another kid." "What, like we jumped him?" "I'm not accusing you of anything. I just wanted to know your side. I'm trusting you and would really hate to find out that you weren't telling me the truth." I left it at that for then.
The 3 boys involved talked to one of the other teachers after school and I guess that the accuser (one who had a bloody nose) started changing his story. "Maybe it wasn't them... I don't remember..." When I heard this, I guess there should have been some relief, but I was equally upset just in a different way. There are mixed stories being told, but the accuser is not the most trust-worthy. I guess we'll just see how it pans out. But I was upset because throughout the day I was flirting with that thin line between trust and mistrust. I wanted to trust my boys, this other kid impacted me, and I started to cross that line. However, I was immediately relieved that I never formally accused them of anything. Keep your head at all times, be fair, listen to all stories, and trust your gut I guess.
I made sure that I talked to my boys about it before they left for the day. They're not incapable of doing what they were accused of and I was concerned that their anger may tempt them to retaliate. I talked to one of them at length about how he deals with anger and what should be done. I expressed concerns about how some of the boys joke about beating people up or getting into prison. "You're so much better than that. You are above that kind of behavior. I know that and you know that, but you need to show them that, ok?" So I told him to have a good night, not to let his anger get the best of him, and I would see him tomorrow. I "gave him a pound" (knocking fists) and sent him on his way. I was still upset, but doing ok. All in a day's work.
I guess this somewhat minor situation just got me thinking about trust and mistrust in general. I want to be able to trust my students and those who I surround myself with in life, simple as that. However I also realized that who I trust lies in my own hands. Yes, we're obviously impacted by other people's actions. But when it comes down to it, I make the decision of who I am going to trust.
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Update as of 3/9/07:
Nothing has really come of this confrontation as far as discipline or other academic affairs go. When talking to the boys about what should be done, they said that they were just not going to hang out with this kid any more. Good plan!
One of my other students reported to me today that there was a near confrontation between the younger brother of the accuser (from the other class) and one of the accused (Angel, the one I talked to at length about being above such things). I guess that this kid was basically trying to pick a fight / taunt Angel before school this morning. But what did Angel do? He continually ignored him and kept walking away from the situation. Way to go, little man! There's one of my first good examples of what I can teach these kids beyond the classroom.
As I have mentioned before, I have started to really bond with some of my students. Some of my boys who like to cause a stir are actually the same ones who have been working their ways into my heart. The thing about bonding with students when I'm only gonna' be here for 2 more weeks is that I get attached. Because I have emotionally invested in my kids, it sometimes gets complicated. I trust them through that bond, but today that was tested. I found out at lunch today that two of my favorite boys apparently beat up another boy from a different section of 4th grade. Obviously I was upset to hear this and surprised nothing had been mentioned. So, I casually asked one of the offenders if anything happened after school. "No." "There's not anything you want to talk about or tell me?" (confused look) "No. Why, what happened?" "I heard that there may have been a confrontation between you, Alfonso, and another kid." "What, like we jumped him?" "I'm not accusing you of anything. I just wanted to know your side. I'm trusting you and would really hate to find out that you weren't telling me the truth." I left it at that for then.
The 3 boys involved talked to one of the other teachers after school and I guess that the accuser (one who had a bloody nose) started changing his story. "Maybe it wasn't them... I don't remember..." When I heard this, I guess there should have been some relief, but I was equally upset just in a different way. There are mixed stories being told, but the accuser is not the most trust-worthy. I guess we'll just see how it pans out. But I was upset because throughout the day I was flirting with that thin line between trust and mistrust. I wanted to trust my boys, this other kid impacted me, and I started to cross that line. However, I was immediately relieved that I never formally accused them of anything. Keep your head at all times, be fair, listen to all stories, and trust your gut I guess.
I made sure that I talked to my boys about it before they left for the day. They're not incapable of doing what they were accused of and I was concerned that their anger may tempt them to retaliate. I talked to one of them at length about how he deals with anger and what should be done. I expressed concerns about how some of the boys joke about beating people up or getting into prison. "You're so much better than that. You are above that kind of behavior. I know that and you know that, but you need to show them that, ok?" So I told him to have a good night, not to let his anger get the best of him, and I would see him tomorrow. I "gave him a pound" (knocking fists) and sent him on his way. I was still upset, but doing ok. All in a day's work.
I guess this somewhat minor situation just got me thinking about trust and mistrust in general. I want to be able to trust my students and those who I surround myself with in life, simple as that. However I also realized that who I trust lies in my own hands. Yes, we're obviously impacted by other people's actions. But when it comes down to it, I make the decision of who I am going to trust.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Update as of 3/9/07:
Nothing has really come of this confrontation as far as discipline or other academic affairs go. When talking to the boys about what should be done, they said that they were just not going to hang out with this kid any more. Good plan!
One of my other students reported to me today that there was a near confrontation between the younger brother of the accuser (from the other class) and one of the accused (Angel, the one I talked to at length about being above such things). I guess that this kid was basically trying to pick a fight / taunt Angel before school this morning. But what did Angel do? He continually ignored him and kept walking away from the situation. Way to go, little man! There's one of my first good examples of what I can teach these kids beyond the classroom.
March 6, 2007
Taking Chances
One of the great things about my teaching here in Texas is working with my cooperating teacher, Sandra Perez. She has been working with student teachers for many, many years. When we were talking together, she mentioned that she had an awful cooperating teacher during her own student teaching experience. So, she's made a commitment to take in as many student teachers as she can to "give back". And let me tell you, she's great at it. She said that she sometimes takes in up to three student teachers a year. That's a huge deal!
Some of my roommates here have kind of struggled working with their teachers because many of their teachers do not want to give up control in their classes (which is totally understandable; these are their classrooms). We're supposed to teach full time for at least 2 - 3 weeks while we're here. However, Sandra is really good about letting me do / try pretty much whatever I want. I started teaching on my 2nd day here! I've also been full time teaching for six weeks already... this is my last one. I think that because of this, I've really connected with my students. I'm gonna miss them like crazy!
I've had to figure out the delicate balance between not knowing much about something and knowing a lot about other topics. Both my university supervisor and advisor have made comments regarding my teaching and the knowledge that I bring into the classroom. Because I have had so many diverse experiences (in great part due to my education through the classes I have taken at Trinity and chose to take at UMM). My advisor said that as a student in class, in my conversations, and while I am teaching I stay on track with the topic, but I also draw information from everywhere that enriches or expands on the idea. This is great, but when I'm teaching I have to be careful... my students may not see where I'm coming from right away. It was great to hear that distinction.
On the other end of the spectrum, I'm not afraid to try something new with these students that I've never done before. For example, this week I started teaching to these native Texan students living on the Mexican border about the Texan Revolution. (Bring it on!) :) So, it'll be a fun last week and a half... lots of new experiences and adventures still left to be had. Huzzah!
Some of my roommates here have kind of struggled working with their teachers because many of their teachers do not want to give up control in their classes (which is totally understandable; these are their classrooms). We're supposed to teach full time for at least 2 - 3 weeks while we're here. However, Sandra is really good about letting me do / try pretty much whatever I want. I started teaching on my 2nd day here! I've also been full time teaching for six weeks already... this is my last one. I think that because of this, I've really connected with my students. I'm gonna miss them like crazy!
I've had to figure out the delicate balance between not knowing much about something and knowing a lot about other topics. Both my university supervisor and advisor have made comments regarding my teaching and the knowledge that I bring into the classroom. Because I have had so many diverse experiences (in great part due to my education through the classes I have taken at Trinity and chose to take at UMM). My advisor said that as a student in class, in my conversations, and while I am teaching I stay on track with the topic, but I also draw information from everywhere that enriches or expands on the idea. This is great, but when I'm teaching I have to be careful... my students may not see where I'm coming from right away. It was great to hear that distinction.
On the other end of the spectrum, I'm not afraid to try something new with these students that I've never done before. For example, this week I started teaching to these native Texan students living on the Mexican border about the Texan Revolution. (Bring it on!) :) So, it'll be a fun last week and a half... lots of new experiences and adventures still left to be had. Huzzah!
March 2, 2007
Team El Paso
Here's a picture of my and my Texas roommates (known to our professors as "Team El Paso"). Cara and I only have 2 weeks of teaching left (plus a week for our Spring Break). Mal, Mary, and Kirsten are staying another month to teach Spanish in the high school near our apartment. (They're double majors with Spanish Secondary Ed.) Good times!
From Left to Right: Malorie, me (Karen), Mary, Cara, and Kirsten.
And here's Scotsdale Elementary School where I teach 4th grade!
From Left to Right: Malorie, me (Karen), Mary, Cara, and Kirsten.And here's Scotsdale Elementary School where I teach 4th grade!
February 23, 2007
Crane Crash & Cager
Every day spent teaching is filled with new experiences, but today was an even more extreme case of that. We heard last night on the news that a "wind storm" was blowing in, literally. I didn't think a whole lot of it because, let's face it, I'm coming from Morris - the land of all that is windy. But throughout the day today it definitely did blow in! I'm in the desert, also surrounded by mountains that are really quite beautiful. But the way that the wind picks up that sand can hurt when it hits your face and gets in your eyes! Apparently, it can also be pretty dangerous.
Currently at Scotsdale, my school, they are doing construction. We're adding onto the school to make a bigger & better cafeteria with an improved kitchen. (Then the old spaces will be converted into classrooms.) Lately, they've started working on the roof, which they continued doing today. It seems that this may have not been the wisest choice with the forecast. About an hour after we got back from lunch our principal told us over the PA system that we had to leave our classroom and to bring what we needed for the rest of the day. My kids were just finishing their weekly math test! So, we got everything that we needed for their remaining assignments and moved to the gym.
It was then that we heard what happened (plus what I've heard since then): a crane fell on our school! One of the two cranes located on our site was lifting a large piece of aluminum to be used on the roof. It must not have been cantilevered enough / at all because the wind caught hold of it and started pulling. It pulled with such force that this multi-ton crane actually tipped over and fell on our building (and the construction site)! Thank God that no one was hurt. They evacuated 2 of the hallways near the damage. So, we spent the rest of our afternoon on the stage in the gym with two other 4th grade classes. Whew! It was very interesting to give a spelling test with 120 screaming 3rd graders next door and 40 other 4th graders 5 feet away. Ah, the joy of being flexible! It was mostly just entertaining, I couldn't help but laugh. I also attempted to read out loud to them from Maniac Magee, my pick for our read aloud.
The other exciting thing that happened today was that we had a visitor in school: Willie Ca
ger. He is a former basketball star from the first integrated team in NCAA history: El Paso's own Texas Western University (now University of Texas - El Paso: UTEP). This may sound familiar to some people... it should. This is the team that the film "Glory Road" was made about. He is actually one of the players who was more featured in the story of the team. We were walking to lunch and a couple of my boys started freaking out. We saw a tall, older, African-American man coming towards us in the hallway in his wheelchair. "Ah! That's Willie Cager! Oh my gosh! It's Willie Cager! What's he doing here?" I think that some of my students had seen him at UTEP Miner games. (A lot of the players and former coach Don Haskins still attend the games.) When I came home, I did some research and found out that he's been hired by our district to help lead the after-school basketball program for 3rd - 8th grade. Pretty cool! Maybe we'll see more of him. :)
Currently at Scotsdale, my school, they are doing construction. We're adding onto the school to make a bigger & better cafeteria with an improved kitchen. (Then the old spaces will be converted into classrooms.) Lately, they've started working on the roof, which they continued doing today. It seems that this may have not been the wisest choice with the forecast. About an hour after we got back from lunch our principal told us over the PA system that we had to leave our classroom and to bring what we needed for the rest of the day. My kids were just finishing their weekly math test! So, we got everything that we needed for their remaining assignments and moved to the gym.
It was then that we heard what happened (plus what I've heard since then): a crane fell on our school! One of the two cranes located on our site was lifting a large piece of aluminum to be used on the roof. It must not have been cantilevered enough / at all because the wind caught hold of it and started pulling. It pulled with such force that this multi-ton crane actually tipped over and fell on our building (and the construction site)! Thank God that no one was hurt. They evacuated 2 of the hallways near the damage. So, we spent the rest of our afternoon on the stage in the gym with two other 4th grade classes. Whew! It was very interesting to give a spelling test with 120 screaming 3rd graders next door and 40 other 4th graders 5 feet away. Ah, the joy of being flexible! It was mostly just entertaining, I couldn't help but laugh. I also attempted to read out loud to them from Maniac Magee, my pick for our read aloud.
The other exciting thing that happened today was that we had a visitor in school: Willie Ca
ger. He is a former basketball star from the first integrated team in NCAA history: El Paso's own Texas Western University (now University of Texas - El Paso: UTEP). This may sound familiar to some people... it should. This is the team that the film "Glory Road" was made about. He is actually one of the players who was more featured in the story of the team. We were walking to lunch and a couple of my boys started freaking out. We saw a tall, older, African-American man coming towards us in the hallway in his wheelchair. "Ah! That's Willie Cager! Oh my gosh! It's Willie Cager! What's he doing here?" I think that some of my students had seen him at UTEP Miner games. (A lot of the players and former coach Don Haskins still attend the games.) When I came home, I did some research and found out that he's been hired by our district to help lead the after-school basketball program for 3rd - 8th grade. Pretty cool! Maybe we'll see more of him. :)February 21, 2007
Presidential Knowledge
My students (4th graders) had to do reports and presentations on an assigned president. Here's some knowledge that I acquired. Gotta' love it! Did you know that...
And here's another anecdote from about a month ago: "Martin Luther King was the president and a king. He got married and had 2 children with Rosa Parks." I laughed out loud with that one too and before we cleared that one up as well. Gotta love the life of a teacher!
- "John Adams made a piece of Great Britain with the help of his friend 'Frank' "... I think he meant made peace with the help of Benjamin Franklin. I didn't know that he was ever called Frank. (according to Isaac)
- "Harry S Truman was a slave in World War I." I started laughing out loud when he was conferencing with me about it. "What, Alfonso?!" Then I realized what he meant... "Do you mean that Truman served in World War I?" :) Apparently, not all 4th graders know that "serving" and "slavery" are not the same things, even in terms of serving in a war. We cleared that up right then and there. (Alfonso)
- "Herbert Hoover's the man!" (Ricardo)
- "Theodore Roosevelt died when he was shot at home when he was president." Teddy Roosevelt actually died in his sleep at home (technically from a coronary embolism). (Jonathan)
And here's another anecdote from about a month ago: "Martin Luther King was the president and a king. He got married and had 2 children with Rosa Parks." I laughed out loud with that one too and before we cleared that one up as well. Gotta love the life of a teacher!
February 17, 2007
I am a Teacher
I wrote this on Feb 11 while my students were testing... it works. :)
I am in a land of learning and adventure. A place where children come to feel safe from any harm and to learn about the world that they live in. They are protected and yet not isolated. The outside world enters in so that we can examine and discuss it. This outside world comes in through books, lessons, experiences, stories, but mostly through these little people. These small, beautiful, bright people are the world that we live in. They reflect the world now and show us a glimpse as to how the world may end up being in the future. I stop and find myself surrounded by their beautiful faces: their round, warm faces with eyes set like the dark sky sparkling away. Cascades of long, straight, shiny hair brush past my girls' shoulders, sometimes reaching their waists. And my boys, my little men, are unlike any other. They have smiles that show their mischief and their inner workings. They are living in a world where they are gradually developing their little machismos. I would love to be able to instill in them a desire to be little gentlemen, where their charisma and personality may shine as brightly as possible.
My students have ambition, they have spunk, they are alive and bursting with potential. Most of them have already begun to succeed, but the ones falling behind worry me. There seems to be no way to scoop them up and put them ahead of where they should be... if only we could figure out a way to jump their hurdles! They are becoming more sure of themselves, but it is not always easy for them. That is one beautiful thing to see. So often when they are figuring out something new, how it works, and the potential solution to a problem, they are so precise and careful with each action. We must encourage more of this: methodical thinking and problem solving. They should not be afraid to tackle a big task, but learn how to break it into smaller, more manageable ones. When there is so much unknown information that they are faced up against, it must be hard to be confident and keep pushing onward. But we must; they must. That is what this is all about, this teaching.
Teaching is a way in which we are able to propel the minds and leaders of the future forward. Without trying to be overly idealistic, this is just true. They learn how to look at the world, and begin to see the possible role that they can play in this grand scheme. Now all I have to do is figure out how to get them to do this! I am a teacher, and my world is my classroom.
I am in a land of learning and adventure. A place where children come to feel safe from any harm and to learn about the world that they live in. They are protected and yet not isolated. The outside world enters in so that we can examine and discuss it. This outside world comes in through books, lessons, experiences, stories, but mostly through these little people. These small, beautiful, bright people are the world that we live in. They reflect the world now and show us a glimpse as to how the world may end up being in the future. I stop and find myself surrounded by their beautiful faces: their round, warm faces with eyes set like the dark sky sparkling away. Cascades of long, straight, shiny hair brush past my girls' shoulders, sometimes reaching their waists. And my boys, my little men, are unlike any other. They have smiles that show their mischief and their inner workings. They are living in a world where they are gradually developing their little machismos. I would love to be able to instill in them a desire to be little gentlemen, where their charisma and personality may shine as brightly as possible.
My students have ambition, they have spunk, they are alive and bursting with potential. Most of them have already begun to succeed, but the ones falling behind worry me. There seems to be no way to scoop them up and put them ahead of where they should be... if only we could figure out a way to jump their hurdles! They are becoming more sure of themselves, but it is not always easy for them. That is one beautiful thing to see. So often when they are figuring out something new, how it works, and the potential solution to a problem, they are so precise and careful with each action. We must encourage more of this: methodical thinking and problem solving. They should not be afraid to tackle a big task, but learn how to break it into smaller, more manageable ones. When there is so much unknown information that they are faced up against, it must be hard to be confident and keep pushing onward. But we must; they must. That is what this is all about, this teaching.
Teaching is a way in which we are able to propel the minds and leaders of the future forward. Without trying to be overly idealistic, this is just true. They learn how to look at the world, and begin to see the possible role that they can play in this grand scheme. Now all I have to do is figure out how to get them to do this! I am a teacher, and my world is my classroom.
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