Expectations - Reflections

The transformation of Locke High School to a charter school is a huge effort. It is so different that what the students are used to. Many students are coming from school environments that did not hold them accountable for anything. So we want to hold them accountable for everything. Although cognizant of where they are coming from, I am also adjusting to the age. I’m used to 15 and 16 year olds. With these 13 and 14 year olds, it is different to say the least. One advantage I have is that I know what they need for 10th grade and can hold them to that standard. So the California Conference for Justice and Equality (CCEJ) has come to our school to teach the students about everything from different forms of oppression to bullying and school action plans. Although a beautiful idea and presentation, it is difficult for our young student to sit still for a while and absorb some information (as would be expected). So we are seeing the worst of their behavior due to dis-engagement. Last year, I only had students leave class three times, all three were incidents involved them cursing or attempting to fight another student. I considered that terrible, and always look at what could I have done to have prevented that from ever coming up. I keep stuff pretty active, so there is not a lot of time for the extras. The year before last, I did not kick out any students the entire year. I hate to do it. Today, I had to ask two to leave to the dean, and wrote up seven. And all the poor facilitator (who is not a trained teacher) could say was “We all have to be here so we might as well participate…whatever.” Yea, that will get them engaged! Although I always look to what I can do, I also know that at least I am holding them accountable. I asked them to leave because their behavior was so outrageous that the example set for the other students was unacceptable. One student could not let go of the attitude! Another was cursing at a student. I never take it personal, and I know that the students have to adjust to expectations that they have never seen. We are asking them to work harder at school than they ever have in their lives. I know in due time, they will adjust and rise to the expectations and come to appreciate the structure. In the meantime, I’m just gonna keep the expectations and accountability high. And make sure I get a good night’s rest!