I read an article in the newspaper today regarding several Detroit Public Schools that are slated to be closed. I read it near the beginning of my school day, fighting back tears, not for myself, but for those affected, such as colleagues with whom I have stood with, laughed with, shared lesson plans,classroom management strategies, and other events that are part of being in the teacherhood.
Before I could read the posted story twice, one of my co-workers told me to get the wrinkles out of my face and to remember the source of my strength. Instead of "grieving", fight back with faith, and focus on the fact that there are blessings yet to be experienced, even in the midst of a happening such as this.
She was right. I slowly began to turn my mind around and instead wish favor on those colleagues and the communities that they serve.
I also prayed that they would have strength for the journey...and an ability to look ahead and not look back.
You see...the "List" affects everyone.
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Erica M Dean currently teaches at Clippert Academy, A Detroit Public School.
You can follow her on Twitter @msdean4dps
You see, what happened at my school today had nothing to do with politics, budgets, and in-fighting among grown-ups: just old-fashioned creativity put into action. I witnessed students using a wide-variety of artistic, mathematical, reading, research, social studies, and science skills, in addition to improving teamwork skills in an effort to complete a major task.
All over my school district, there are so many projects and events going on like this every month: Family Reading Nights, Science Fairs, Daddy-Daughter Dances, Show-and-Tell, Dress Up Like a Book Character, and more. I recommend that my colleagues use the blessing of social media to promote the good that lies within the Detroit Public Schools...in other words, if your school is doing something well, tell it!
My name is Erica M Dean. I'm in DPS...Are you?
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Erica M Dean
Clippert Academy, A Detroit Public School
5th / 6th Split Homeroom
As I was completing progress reports for my 5th / 6th grade homeroom class that I teach within Detroit Public Schools, I realized that I was actually diagnosing the strengths and weaknesses of my "patients" or students. I also reflected upon the parents and families that I have met who rely on myself and others to recommend books, educational games, and at-home strategies that can help their child improve.
While I do not earn the same as the surgeon or pediatrician, I know for a fact that my job is just as important: I do save lives. In fact, my attitude as an educator has the power to heal hearts broken by dysfunctional homes...and provide a safe haven from 9am - 2:45pm. This thought overwhelms me...
Just this past week, a school counselor came to me and revealed that a certain student in my class was feeling so much better about being a part of my homeroom. Now, it's not that I do anything special, and I don't claim to be the best teacher...I guess it is the fact that I try to provide some sort of stability while he is in my presence...along with the reading, writing, and mathematics.
The school district I work for has many issues that are beyond my scope and realm of control. Yet, as I work the front lines, and leave the educational politics to the professionals, I know that in 2010, I am still teaching and healing as well.
Erica M Dean
Clippert Academy-A Detroit Public School
5th / 6th Split Homeroom
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