My focus for this section was Billy teaching for the day. I wonder about Esme so distinctly hearing her voice and seeing her actions in this young mans mannerisms throughout the day. I loved that she followed through with this. I also really loved that she participated and took his role for the day. She managed to turn what could have been a HUGE behavior issue complete with conferences, office referrals, suspensions, tons of paperwork, and red tape into an assessment and in essence a learning opportunity for more than just Billy. What a truly powerful experience...RED FLAG...I hope no other kids get the wild hair to misbehave this badly in hopes that they'll get to do what he did. I can totally see that coming back to bite her!
After the rest of this section, it's almost better for me to think about which situation I find the least appalling...
1. Having someone openly criticize the way I've chosen to decorate my classroom.
2. Having my students STAB a substitute.
3. Having someone actually demean or belittle the instructional choices I made based on what my students needed at that moment in time.
4. Or...the entire Madame blow-up creeping back up AGAIN.
I can certainly see how Esme arrived at a point that was just moments away from quitting. Actually, as brash and as cocky as she is...I'm rather shocked she was convinced NOT to leave.
Now it's your turn...
Reaction:
What is one section in this part to which you found yourself reacting emotionally? What reaction did you have? Why do you think this section evoked this emotion from you at this time?
Connection:
Is there anything specific from this section you can connect back to a course from your Junior year? Think specifically in regard to Logical Thought, Child Development, Creative Expressions, etc.
Extension:
So many things I want to know---but the one quote I keep getting pulled back to for you guys this time is toward the bottom of page 102.
"Only those who do not understand us have reason to fear us."
I see quite clearly how this quote comes into play in a powerful and meaningful way for Esme at the point in the journal in which it is used. What does it mean for you?
There will be no new post during the 4th of July week.
Our next post will be added July 13th.
It will cover February 21st up to but not including April 1st.
I sent all of you an e-mail with the internet posted pre-planning and first day of school dates for all the districts we use. I hope by this time you've made contact with your host teacher and have things worked out.
I'd like to have a welcome back party once this all gets underway. I'll be posting plans for that soon.
I hope you are all finding ways to squeeze in some relaxation and fun as we wind down our summer.
Please be safe during the 4th of July Holiday.
Love ya!
Mean it!
Dr. VW
