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Home : 2004 : July : 19

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By Susan

It's been 14 years since I taught in a school like that, but the main things I saw were this:
1. A lot of single parent homes, so very hard to make parental contact.
2. Even when I made parental contact, they were
at a loss for "what to do".
3. Very little money - so field trips had to be inexpensive or none and I couldn't expect them to bring in "extra things" (for science experiments, etc...) unless they were things like paper towel tubes, etc...
4. Many didn't get the rest they needed, so they were very tired in class. I kept changing things up so they wouldn't be idle for too long.
5.

I tried to have presentations for them at night, because most couldn't attend during the day.
6. Don't assume that all parents can read - be careful about giving too many home projects.

As far as being successful, remember that it's not the kids' fault where they grow up. Hug them daily - it may be the only hug they get. Do as much as you can during the day. You can give "practice work" to do at home, but don't expect it to always get done - sometimes kids are left with older siblings that don't check homework (or mom is sleeping due to working the night shift).

Don't get me wrong - you'll have some supportive, visible families - there just weren't as many as other areas (at least not in my case). I adored those children, and they'll love and respect you with a lot of nurturing and understanding. :)