Middle school in Minneapolis
Today I was with middle school kids teaching science at a charter school in Minneapolis on Lake & Haha. The joys of genetics. It's amazing how they completely over thought the Panchette square (I can never remember the name of that box).
I really must start out with how greatful I am to have students not doing the pee-pee dance or hacking and drooling all over. No one wets their pants, no one screams when they don't get their way. The fights are bloodier, though. Appearantly, 3-4 got into it in the hall.
What was lovely was kids responding to a quiet voice saying please. It was amazing and wonderful all at the same time. These are at risk kids, inner city bounce-arounds, street wise and sharp as whips. I admire them more than their snotty counterparts in the 'burbs. I love inner city charter schools! These kids have a maturity suburban kids won't attain until college if ever.
I feel as if I am swimming in balmy waters with sharks. As long as I keep my head about me and keep to recognised, established patterns, everyone is safe. But the life! These candles burn so brightly, attractive in their fragility. Such a thrill!
Some realize they are at a cross roads in their life and make their choices unconsciously to succeed or fail. Granted it's just middle school Earth Science, but life lessons like following directions, asking questions and working with your neighbor are valuable skills.
When I got in this morning, I was scared out of my wits. What if they turned out to be monsters? What if I couldn't remember the parts of the lesson? What if the regular teacher hadn't provided stuff for me to do with them? What if I had to wing it? What if I lost it sometime during the day? What if I sucked?
But I didn't. I got there early so I could familiarise myself with the room. I read the lesson plans and did the worksheets and read the little book on genetics. I took the time to plan out some improv games (Bus Stop & Questions). I took the time to work with those who wanted help and let those who didn't to their own devices. Sad, but I'd say maybe half got it.
The greatest thing was that it DIDN'T suck. All in all, it was pretty good. I was tired and a little shaky, but I felt good. I even got invited to a party over on Logan and to a Thanksgiving dinner. Extremely unprofessional for me to participate, but all the same it was nice to be invited.
And there was a sink in the room. Ahh, what bliss to have a room with tables, chairs and a sink.