Goal # 60: Give monthly to Teach for America
I was a Teach for America teacher in inner-city Miami for two years where I taught 5th Grade Math and Science and then revitalized the Gifted Education Program at the school and taught K-5 Gifted Language Arts. After only two years, it was clear to me that my students had the same capacity to perform at levels where students perform in more affluent communities, but that expectations for my kiddos were just set too low.
While I am not a teacher or a principal, I still care deeply about education in America. I think it is one of our country's biggest issues, and I wish it was a "hotter" issue. Movies like Waiting for Superman and leaders like Michelle Rhee keep the issue current and friends of mine from TFA continue around the country to fight for educational equality. I have tremendous respect for them.
Even though I am not directly working in education, when I choose to become a Teach for America teacher, we were told that our commitment continued past our 2 year classroom commitment. I have volunteered for TFA post Miami and donate money randomly, but I really wanted to set up a constant donation to an organization I support, and so finally today I did! I have a monthly deposit to TFA for the next 1001 days set up! Goal #60: Check.
Below are some pictures of my students!
Two of my goofy boys trying to problem solve together. Loved these peaceful moments.
After receiving a grant from DonorsChoose.org I got an LCD projector for my classroom. My students loved it! It was fun teaching them powerpoint and speaking skills.
These are some of my 5th graders at the 5th Grade Prom. Oh yes. We had a 5th Grade Prom.
I coached the first ever Odyssey of the Mind team at my school and competed in the regional competition as one of the only inner-city schools. I was so proud of my kids!
If you would like to support Teach for America, check out their website!
