I went to work this morning with fire in my veins to get everything completely caught up...that is of course until I was called to my department principal's office. What had I done wrong? Nothing - evidently, I am doing such a great job that I get to pilot a new reading program next semester. Wonderful, right? Not so much. Since it is to start on January 4th when students return, I am being pulled out on Thursday and Friday to complete the training.
So, the day before finals start I will not be with my kiddos. I won't be there on the day of the first final with my freshmen who have never taken finals. Since the end of October, I have only had two weeks of full teaching. My students are bummed as am I. While I understand the administrations desire to increase reading scores, it really doesn't help my students' faith in me when I miss so much. Here's to illness and professional development. My New Year's resolution is to not miss more than one or two days second semester.
Another frustration is that this program is computer-based and being used with my double block English I students. While I have an extra block with them, it is not simply to do homework. We cram all of the English I curriculum into second semester. With this new program, I am losing class time. I hope that the powers that be do not mind if we skim over The Odyssey and Romeo and Juliet. I still plan to teach them, but they will be much shorter versions. I really do hope to see some progress with my students' reading scores. These kids could use some positive encouragement!
Bolero in Paris
14 years ago
Amy,
ReplyDeleteWe started a couple of 'computer-based' English programs (one being Read 180) and are now considering dropping it and trying something else. We weren't seeing much student success with using it so they're looking at other alternatives. I don't know what the alternatives are but I have just heard about the disappointment in using the computer-based instruction. I hope that you curriculum works better than ours did!
With all the research that I've been reading about literacy/media literacy, I wish that for these types of students that are at-risk, alternative ideas from this area (considering remixing projects) would be looked at. This is what our students know and understand and it's their way of communicating. We might find that we can see success in developing their literacy skills through the use of web2.0 teachnology and media.
Good luck with your New Year resolution...I hope that it comes true! :)
Amy,
ReplyDeleteAs stressed out as you are, I hope you see that you were picked for this project because you are such a good teacher. Obviously your admin. think highly of you and believe in you and feel you are the person to make a difference.
Best of luck!
Wow, Amy! I would also agree you have to take this as a compliment. But, I have been frustrated as well in past years where I have been gone from the classroom too much. And too much to me, is only like 2-3 days a semester. I hate missing school and I hate writting sub plans. I can't believe your going to miss a final! It will all work out in the end; can't wait to hear about the new reading program! Good luck-
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteYou are not only. In our district they like to start new things during the school year. This new school we got new Social Studies, Science and Reading program all with out professional development training. I am sure you were picked for a reason and you will do fine.
So, the program is actually pretty cool. I learned more about phonics and how the brain functions in one day than I thought possible. There are still the logistics to work out, but I can already see how this program will help my students. I even learned about Irlen syndrome, which is a light sensitivity issue. I have a student from Haiti who complains about his eyes hurting, and he squints all the time. It may be more than just a need for glasses. When the trainer starting discussing this, little bells went off as I was recognizing the same symptoms in my student. I am anxious to talk to his family about having this checked out. I can actually say I am looking forward to tomorrow's training, and the fact that we get out early! A new dishwasher and Santa are on the agenda with the family. Happy Holidays!
ReplyDeleteAmy,
ReplyDeleteThat is so exciting that you are getting pumped! It is so easy to get overwhelmed and not see the good. Hope you will keep us updated.