Inner City English Teacher

Do you think teachers really have no choice but to "teach for the test?"

Asked by billbo jackson over 11 years ago

At this point, I feel that we as teachers do need to teach to the test.  In fact, we barely taught literature this year, as we have a new initiative to teach only non-fiction informational text and instruction on how to identify textual evidence. Boooorrriiinnngggg....everything is based on test scores to the point where kids are so "tested out" they are losing interest in the curriculum....educators are expected to be like Stepford teachers, eliminating any creativity, preventing any blossoming of exposure to the classics....trust me, if I were older and had more years in, this would be the time to say adios and either retire in the sunshine or find a second career...

Yes but a student teacher. I have been here all year and noticed a considerable change in the behavior of some of my best students. They are hallucinating in class but admin and security say they are sick. There is no nurse or counselors here.

Asked by Ange over 11 years ago

I'm not quite sure what you mean by "hallucinating." What kind of a school has no nurse or counselors?

The district I work in is very wealthy and with our own money we can afford to buy 400 iPads for us. Recently we got a grant from the State to get Dance Dance Revolution for gym class. Is this upsetting to you? There are much more needy districts.

Asked by 34123 over 10 years ago

Well, it certainly doesn't thrill me, lol.  How did such a wealthy district get any kind of grant from the state? The suburban kids I tutor after school get these perks as well in their schools and I must admit that I do turn a bit green when they tell me about the resources they are fortunate to get.  It just is what it is, I guess...not too much I can do...I actually went to a local bank who was generous enough to donate hundreds of ball point pens for the kids...that's the kind of thing I am grateful for...but I can dream, can't I????  If only....

Have you considered teaching somewhere that was in between upper-class and inner-city? It seems like you've experienced the two extremes.

Asked by Jada over 10 years ago

I did work for two years in a school that would be considered "in-between" which I loved; however, due to budget cuts, my position, as well as half of the department was eliminated. I would never go back to a suburban school! The parents are too intense and feel they can tell you how to do your job.  That is way too stressful and demoralizing, especially if the parents have "pull" with the board of ed. And frankly, the worst part of being in an inner city school is the administration, not the students!!!  We are micro-managed to the point where you can barely do your job without an administrator coming into your room and making "suggestions" despite the fact that they have never taught English before!!!!

Have you ever had a situation where a student wants to go to a good college, but can't afford it?

Asked by Jada over 10 years ago

Hi,

Honestly, what I do see are students who qualify for a plethora of scholarships and financial aid that helps them through.  On the other hand, once they get in, I do see many drop out due to their inability to prevail and focus and work hard.  Unfortunately, I do see former students coming back to visit, saying they couldn't cut it in college and are now working jobs that do not require a college degree. My biggest concern is that we do not properly prepare them for the college experience and it takes a rare student who makes it through four years of a higher education. I constantly help former students with their essays, papers, etc. because the expectations in college far surpass anything they are truly prepared for.  And that's the sad reality....               

I recently began teaching in an inner city school and if that wasn't challenging enough, I teach middle sch ES. What has worked for motivation for you? I have offered lunches, parties, etc for good behavior but still not really peaking their interest

Asked by Sarah over 10 years ago

That's a great question and a dilemma for all of us...it will take some time to get to have a feel for your school and kids...it took me a couple of years before I felt settled and comfortable.  I would try to stay away from rewards as such until you have established what your expectations are and that they need to meet them...don't be a pushover because they can sense that a mile away.  Once they know they can trust and depend on you, it will be smoother sailing.  But unfortunately, they are naturally suspicious of any newbie so that will take some time.  Best of luck and keep me posted!!!

Do you count off on smartass answers?

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