Yesterday, my students returned to their classroom after Winter Break full of their usual energy and enthusiasm. All felt as it should be. But in buildings where adults manage issues that ultimately impact the future of my students, other things were happening.
As we read the next chapter in Some Kind of Courage, adults discussed their future. In a conference room somewhere in Los Angeles, my union and my employer confronted each other, again. Perhaps they were talking over whether or not my students will have a nurse on hand when they suffer an asthma attack. Maybe they were discussing the merits of psychological social workers in schools where the majority come from households who qualify for subsidized meals. Possibly they were debating the merits of librarians and counselors in the high school my students will go to.
As my students and I analyzed a letter of an immigrant at Ellis Island in the 1800s, other people were making decisions that will impact their long and short term future.
When I worked with Leah on her blog post, I suspect our newly elected Governor Gavin Newsom was making his inaugural address. I wonder, does he plan on sending his adorable two-year-old son to a middle school with a class size that exceeds 44? How will this man I voted for the address the wealth gap in our state that mirrors the “…achievement gap in our schools and a readiness gap that holds back millions of our kids”? Will he step up for my students?
I have two more days with my students. To read the next chapter, write another article, develop a conjecture, do another experiment. It breaks my heart to acknowledge I probably will not be with them on Thursday. Perhaps this is what it takes to move the second largest public school district in the nation in a direction it needs to go.
Last night, with all of this running through my heart, I finally settled on a word for 2019. One to hold on to. One that will allow me to step forward in a direction that is true to my beliefs. A word that is positive and active. My one little (but powerful) word for 2019 is
Here’s to embracing all the challenges and opportunities, adults and children that 2019 presents.
To Read To Write To Be 
That word is so you, my friend. And I know, even as you work within the confines of what public school education is like these days, you will never stray from embracing all that your kids need from you, school day after school day, no matter what the outside forces say or do.
My heart breaks for the decisions and actions that must be made. I’ve been thinking about you as I read about the looming strike. I think your word will serve you well.
A great word. I look forward to reading more about your experiences with this word over the next few months!
What a wonderful word, the antithesis of “little,” expansive and inclusive. I look forward to following your journey with EMBRACE as a guiding light.
“Embrace” is a supportive word in this tremulous situation.
Educating children always presents challenges. Embracing what the future holds is a beautiful way to think about the work you will do this year.
What a time of turmoil. Sending positive thoughts and a virtual embrace. You’ve got this.
Embrace defines you for me in so many ways. Every post you have written reflects how you embrace the best in every child, the opportunity in every moment and the beauty in learning. I know this word, as well as your grace, kindness, dedication, and values will guide you through this time. Sending strength and hope you way.
What a thoughtful post about the realities that plague so many of us. Here’s to a room and world full of attitudes like yours.
Standing with you, your colleagues and students this rainy Monday morning as the strike begins.💔 In my 36 year public education career I personally know how difficult this decision is. Praying for a quick resolution.