| |
|
|
| |
Case: De-emphasize Differences.
I was recently assigned to the middle school in the Warren School District. The district serves a community that had once been an all-white middle-class enclave, but has recently become more diverse in its ethnic makeup. I am very interested in multicultural education. I instituted the use of dialog journals in my adviser group, telling the students that they can write anything they want. Some journal entries cause me concern. Warren Jackson, an African American, complains that my emphasis on African American culture embarrasses him. Gail Smith, a white girl, writes that her parents object strongly to her affection for Warren Jackson and that she is considering suicide. My problems come to a head in my first meeting with the principal. The principal suggests that I decrease his use of small groups, that I abandon my dialogue journals, and that I de-emphasize the multicultural aspects of my classes. He suggests that I emphasize similarities, not differences. I don't know what to do. I do think that my methods have some value but I cannot go against my principal.
Solution: (Rates are posted for this solution!)
I agree with your decision to tell the principle and you should respect his suggestions; but you as the teacher have to make your decision based on your class and what you feel is best also. I would continue the journals, they are a great way to get your students to express their feelings and emotions. I would possibly go back and discuss with the principal your opinions and alternative ideas. |
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
Rating
| The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is relevant to the case |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is original |
Yes
|
| Comments: Kimberly, I agree. The journals are an opportunity for the students to say things that otherwise would never be said. With that there comes a risk. Gail has said that she is contemplating suicide and that is a paramount situation for any teacher. I don't think the journals should be stopped, but maybe more focused, in that the teacher could implement a topic for the day or something. |
| Rated On: June 13, 2014 12:39 am |
| Rated By: Haley Moore |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
|
|
| |
Rating
| The suggested solution is respectful of the individual (student) |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is relevant to the case |
No
|
| The suggested solution is reasonable (easy) for the teacher to implement |
Yes
|
| The suggested solution is likely to solve the problem/issue |
No
|
| The suggested solution is original |
No
|
| Comments: I do not think you should go against your principal. At the end of the day, they are your boss. I would have a meeting with the principal to come up with a solution that works for both. |
| Rated On: October 18, 2020 8:18 pm |
| Rated By: beVuLu |
|
|
| |
|
|
|
