Crazy Times at Markham
Yesterday was probably the most chaotic day of my life. We had three, yes THREE, lock downs in one day. The first one happened before school even started because some high school kid from a nearby school brought a weapon onto campus. The other two lock downs were due to fights, one of which involved some parents. It seemed as if every time the campus intercoms went off, it was just to say, "The Chapter One office is closed," code for "There is a lock down." The lock downs basically consisted of getting all kids near your classroom (regardless of whether or not they are your students) into your room, and then locking the doors. We were not to open the doors for anyone who knocked during this time or let any students out unless it was an emergency. During the first lock down, I went on and carried out instruction as usual because I only had my kids in my class. The second lock down ocurred during my conference period (free period), and I pulled in two sixth grade students and an eighth grade boy. The last lock down ocurred during sixth period (the last period of the day), and lasted 15 minutes beyond the official end of school. When school was finally dismissed, I had to escort my students to a particular gate and then try to help control the crowds of students who were trying to leave. The whole experience was pretty crazy and sad. Many of my students were so scared, especially because of the rumors that were circulating that the high school kids would be back to jump and possible shoot them. Some students said that they wanted to transfer to another school, and some also managed to call their parents so that they could be picked up early. It's so sad and unfortunate that these students can't feel completely safe in school.