I had just dropped Kenna off and was headed to sub at the High School when my phone rang. They needed me at the Academy something or other (gifted kids or kids in trouble, I'm not sure which) or as a 7th grade History teacher. I jumped at the History teacher one.
See, I love history. I don't know why, but a good story about something from the past always gets me. There is so much inspiration and so many heroes in the history of our world. History comes alive to me.
I had, unfortunately, forgotten that the textbooks in 7th Grade Texas History had not gotten the memo about History being interesting. But I'll get back to that.
When I arrived, I learned I was not a History Teacher, I was a History Coach. So the first thing I had to do was go to Athletics, where they took my attendance sheet and sent me away. It was kinda like being picked last in sports- literally. It felt like rejection, which was weird, since I was way more athletic looking than the other coaches.
I returned to the office and was assigned a kid to watch for a period that has autism. Basically, I sat with him for a class while he listened to a book on tape with his class in case he had an episode. It was very interesting to observe him and his reactions to others. I have a little experience with Asperger's, but I've not seen someone at this age with this low level of social interaction. He was a nice kid, though.
During my conference, I was sent to the behavioral class to help out while another teacher went to a meeting. The kids were busy doing something, so the other teacher and I got to chat. He was a real nice guy, who is getting a Masters so he can pursue international business- perhaps missions as well. I've come across some teachers that I question why they teach at all. They seem to only complain about students and the burdens of teaching. This guy genuinely cared about the kids and just seemed excited to be there. It was nice and encouraging.
When I finally got to teach history, the students answered the bell work of what does "G.T.T." mean? (Gone To Texas) Then they read about Immigration to Texas 1836-1856. In two and a half pages. It was the barest of bones for education. I can see why students don't really like history until college finally tells the whole story. We discussed the text by me asking them stories of their own ancestors immigration. Also, the text talked about land grants- so I asked them what the largest land grant university in the state of Texas was.
Give up?
Texas A&M. Duh.
Then we watched Far & Away. I've seen the first twenty minutes three times today. I''d like to see the whole thing, now. I found a new movie, so that makes today a plus.
At lunch I sat in the ISS room for the teacher so she could have her lunch. I had a stare down with a student trying to buck authority. I won.
The afternoon was more history class. Despite the dryness of it, I loved every minute of it. I can relate to 7th grade much better than 5th. They actually get my jokes. Usually.
Last period I was once again kicked out of Athletics, but it's OK, cuz I got to go home early.
All in all, it was a good day. Now, I just really want to see how Far & Away turns out.
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