Tag Archives: Teacher

AP English Lit exam, a failed School Budget and Teacher Appreciation Week

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Irony interests and excites every AP English Literature teacher I know. The defying of expectation in character or plot, the twists of deception, the nuance of regret, the way shadows fall against the backdrop of romance, each singular thread pulled to create the tapestry within a novel, play or poem is what we feed upon from August to May, what we present to those hopeful students who plod through Dostoevsky and gasp over Miller, who acknowledge the majesty of Woolf and Ellison alike irregardless of their divergent settings. This week I ushered my students, those brave souls willing to sit for three hours of an exam to sift through metaphor and imagery and opposition and unlock both literal and emotional meaning and then craft their own response to texts. It is a lot to ask of anyone. I tell them I love them as I leave them under their proctor’s watch, and in that moment, I am so proud of their resolve to crack open this test and shine onward, for they are readers, now a rarity residing in our republic.

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How to Measure a School Year

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A school year is measured by quarters, semesters, days rolled into months, just all the typical ways we calculate time. But a better measurement might be the ways in which you celebrate together, with bonfires and field trips and goofy spirit days and community meetings and yes, stimulating classes, institutionalizing camaraderie, learning and joy every day. Let’s consider those moments to gauge time well spent, because this past year, I would say, we nailed it! As with any endeavor with a diverse population in these ever demanding times, there are always challenges, but in reflection, the caring culture of my high school is one I’m quite proud to be part of.

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Pomp and Circumstance

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As the school year rolls into a June stop, I always like to press pause and ask my Seniors to reflect on their first 18 years, and consider imparting some advice on their peers. To that end one of their final assignments is to write a Valedictorian Speech, regardless if they will give one at Graduation or not. I write a Commencement Speaker Speech, regardless that I will not give it at Graduation. Seems like a task worthwhile for all of us to do these last days, don’t you think? The other day, during Period 3 we each stood at the podium on the auditorium stage, and addressed each other with all the pomp we could muster. I can assure you, they move me to laughter and tears every year, and I am always in wonder over their wisdom and optimism. This time too.

Tonight, I will share my speech with you.

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