Kim gave us a great talk about being different and holding true to our beliefs and values about teaching. I guess I never really thought that would be a problem. It's easy to say now, "Nothing can change the way I feel, I will be the best teacher ever!" The reality is that we are not there, we have no idea what challenges we will face once we are working in a school day in, day out. That being said, it was inspiring to hear her talk about how she does do it everyday and how her love for the students fuels her to do the best she can. It's really easy to judge the teachers from where we sit, but I'm sure it's not easy when there's a larger group not following our ideas, especially when they have been doing it longer than us. I'm sure it would be easy to follow the crowd; no one wants to be the outcast. I heard Josh and Kim though, stay strong, it's okay to be alone if you are doing what you know is right.
I also really enjoyed being able to watch two teachers work to create a lesson plan with the Dean of Pedagogy at CF. It was great to be able to see all the thought that goes into planning one lesson. So many questions to ask, so many things to consider. The need to really know your students is a big part of planning. Kim knew her students and therefore knew how she needed to differentiate the lesson. It was also amazing to see a Dean of Pedagogy in action and how awesome it would be to have that kind of support. I was disappointed to learn that every school doesn't have one of those. Every school should have a Buddy!
I leave you with this quote that not only reinforces my title but reminds us not to make judgements until we have the whole story.
I totally agree with you about there being two sides to every story. I remember reading about the lay off of all the Central Falls teacher and being horrified. The idea that any one would fire everyone was insane to me. However, after listening to Dr. Gallo explain the situation and being so open about it made me realize that there is always more to the story. Dr. Gallo is an amazing and passionate woman and I hope that when I get out into my career I can hold on to my beliefs just as she did. Everything she went through it is hard to imagine and she did not waiver.
ReplyDeleteI agree it was a very enlightening class. It takes a lot of strength to stand true to your beliefs when your the minority in a group. I was shocked to hear how unprofessional some teachers can be. I just feel like if your not willing to do whatever it takes to better your students then why are you a teacher. Dr, Gallo and Kim were very inspiring and I feel like I have a truly refreshed outlook on the situation.
ReplyDeleteSO, I agree that multiple sources need to be looked at, especially when looking at something controversial. However, I honestly don't agree with "Your side, their side, and the truth in the middle." I think the truth, or to be more precise, what is right, is usually closer to one side or another. For example, folks who have bigoted opinions about the effort Latino parents are willing to put in regarding their students education. Perhaps the two sides are "These parents don't care" and "Latino parents face obstacles getting involved with their students education". Somewhere in there, but way closer to the second opinion, is what I think. All parents care, but some have certain work commitments, or are made to feel unwelcome at school, or have language needs not met at schools. I think you all know what I mean, but just to put that out there in this conversation! For me, most of the important stuff cannot be resolved with "Well, we agree to disagree!"
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