September 8th, 2006

• Classes at Washington HS: Though sleep would have been much appreciated, Dong and I decided to join Jeannie at her school so that we could see how schools are run in the mid-west. Dong observed some English classes where I observed a study skills class and a special education art class. The first thing I was struck with at this school was its size. It was at least twice, if not, three times the size of my college campus! It was MASSIVE. Apparently they have about 30 students in each classroom, which are generally team taught by two teachers.

I really enjoyed the classes I attended. The students in the study skills class reminded me of my clients back home. This class was designed to help the younger high school students learn to focus, listen, and organize their thoughts. Wisely, there are only about 8 students in this class with two teachers, so very few behaviors go without notice. I was impressed at how much time the teachers took to explain WHY they were doing certain activities, or WHY the students were being redirected for their inappropriate behaviors. I think that all too often these kids are merely sent out of class without an opportunity to learn about why their behaviors are nonfunctional. These teachers really tried to appeal to their students’ strengths and use the relationships with the students to bring about change. Impressive. The politics of this area may be frightening, but at least the education is good J

Next I attended an art class for special education students. This was a fun class. They were working with chalk and most couldn’t wait to get dirty. I had an opportunity to meet and draw with basically each student. Most were thrilled by having a guest in the room. Many reminded me of my students back at NECC. I was struck by the amount of support the teacher had. I think that there were almost as many paraprofessionals as there were students in the class. As a result, I found that the class maintained a safe, comforting, and positive environment for both the students and the teachers. Who woulda thunk?

• Pool with Ashes, Will, Madoka, Catie, and Rachel: Hooray for down time!
• Mall: There’s Red Sox paraphernalia everywhere! Where am I?
• TGI Fridays: Much needed R & R…and a happy drink.
• Brief stint downtown: We tried to party downtown tonight, but it just wasn’t in the cards. It’s really tough to go to the clubs when you have 19 and 20 year olds with you. We’ll just have to wait until we get to Europe.
• Robin Williams: Instead we decided to rent and watch a movie, the best of Robin Williams Live. This was a great idea, only there were no subtitles and Robin Williams tends to speak at the speed of light. Poor Dong couldn’t understand anything and most of Robin Williams’ humor is based on American culture and news. Demerits to the Americans for being culturally insensitive with our choice of movie. Next time we’ll pick something everybody can enjoy.