There's a lot that can be said of my being the only black male teacher in our school. I am certainly not the only positive black male influence in our school. I could say more, but for now the purpose of this post...
For any number of reasons, there is a kid, from another grade who many thought would be a perfect match for the style and structure that yours truly has to offer. Firm yet fun. No nonsense, still yet full of all kinds of ebullient antics that make for a great learning experience. A person who looks like him who is a teacher and may be a uniquely qualified to be a mentor.
What I quickly discovered were his artistic abilities and his innate proclivity for organizing "stuff". Note: I'm one of "those" teachers with the messy desk and work area. I try. {sigh} Seeing that, he went to work organizing stacks in one of many of my work areas. Nicely done!
Two things really struck a chord.
1. One was his reading of an assigned book by his ELA teacher of record. In the corridors, reading. On his way to lunch, reading. In my room, reading. YES!!!! #Winning
2. Recently my class and I started a read-aloud experiential series, #207ReadsAloud. He asked, "Mr. Flemming, I can read to ya kids?"
WHOA!!!!! YES!!! #Winning
All will be well!
Some call me "Flem"
- Dr. Stephen R. Flemming
- I'm an elementary school teacher turned high school English teacher, School-Based Teacher Leader (SBTL), and adjunct professor here in Philly. These posts are the views, as I see them, from room 105, my first classroom number. Enjoy, engage, and share!
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