Children Want To Learn

I work at a year-round school. The first day of school was July 1, 2009. I love the beginning of a new school year!

Children come to school, at all ages, with an expectation of being challenged academically, socially and emotionally. So many people have negative views about our youth, but I have to tell you that children want to learn. In fact, students are disappointed, angry and/or irritated by teachers who have "decided" that some children want to learn and others do not. Even the child who is acting up in your classroom, still wants the opportunity to learn. Personal/family problems sometimes get in the way of their love or zeal for learning, but they really still want to learn.

Teachers must look beyond the gruff or nonchalant behaviors of their challenging students to realize that a strong, caring and positive teacher can make all the difference in their lives!

Children want to learn. They want to be challenged to think, process, and create. Stand and deliver is not the best way to elicit their excitement to learn.

Please teachers, choose activities that are engaging and interactive.

The joys of learning can diminish the heartaches of life!

You Have A Job!

The sad state of affairs in our country, states and cities regarding a consistent economic decline is affecting thousands of people. The state of California has already started the process of issuing IOU's to providers because they do not have the money to pay them. Hard-working people are losing their jobs with a shaky backup to take care of their families or pay bills that continue to come regardless!

Many teachers have lost their jobs due to the tough economic times as well. Class sizes are increasing, resources are diminishing and summer schools are being cancelled.

As I looked at our staff on the first day of school, (year-round-July 1st), I realized that all of the people in the audience were blessed! My comment to everyone was "you have a job!" My expectations may have been influenced by this somber fact and I am less inclined to accept excuses or mediocrity when I know that thousands of excellent teachers lost their jobs...not because of their performance, but simply because their careers began more recently than the person in the next room!

Ponder and embrace the fact that "you have a job" and walk into the classroom with the boldness and determination to give the students your best!

Can I Catch My Breath?

Year-round schools are designed to accomodate a large population of children who all need to attend school, but there simply isn't enough space. It is a sweet deal for teachers, because they get paid for the entire year even though they work for a few months, then they have the next 1-2 off. The teachers can also work during off track time to make a little extra money. It's a sweet deal! The challenge is really for administrators who have to find the time to vacation because the school year just never seems to end. The last day of school is June 30th. The first day of school is July 1st. Go figure! I feel like throwing up my arms and asking, "Can I Catch My Breath?"

Well, next year we have been told that most schools in Los Angeles Unified will return to a traditional calendar. Most of our year round schools are in urban and low income areas. This will be so much better for the children. They will have the opportunity to learn in a consistent and well rounded instructional program without having to wait two months before they can return to school. I think urban children deserve and need this type of continuity to thrive.

I am hopeful for our students, despite budget cuts and political postering, that they will be honored as little ones deserving a good education and a successful future.