I taught a class today where they needed to use the computer to analyze a few different types of media (an article, music video, and map). They were asked to synthesize the information and type a couple 10-12 sentence paragraphs answering two questions. There was no way the majority of them were going to finish it in class. Knowing that several do not have computers at home, I spent some time problem solving with them how to complete the assignment. I am not willing to accept it if it is handwritten. Why? Because if my students want to be able to compete in the academic world, they need to work through the challenges of accessing what they need. I will not dumb down an assignment because they do not have access to technology at home. Instead, I tell them I believe in them and start looking for options with them.
I think back to my time teaching at a charter school. The private school I taught at had a similar dynamics. The majority of students had more than one computer at home, along with internet, smart phones and a plethora of other technology. They knew they were going to succeed. Their parents would see to that. Now, I teach in a Title 1 school with a reputation of low performing students with bad behavior. I see so much more in my students. I see the desire to learn. The pride of a job well done. I see their eyes light up when told they are being held to high expectations and we know they can reach it.
Yet, the issue remains...they do not readily have access to the technology needed to compete in the world today. So, rather than grade my papers and plan lessons, I sit here pondering. How can we bring them the tools along with enriching experiences to succeed not only in school, but life? We are ALL in this together. These are OUR kids. We are connected. My students, the teachers I work with, and you, my reader. We need to act.
Thus, I am asking for the following:
15 minutes of your time - I would like to set up Skype interviews with people in as many different professions as I can. Let's give them a window into the possibilities of what is out there for them.
Adult Mentors - Are you willing to correspond with a student about your career? Let them know what it takes to be successful at it? Check in with them from time to time? Please consider mentoring a 7th grade student. (All correspondence, to and from, will need to go through me until you are approved by my principal.)
Laptops - Do you have an old laptop that you don't use any more? It doesn't need to go online. It will be used for typing papers. Students would have the opportunity to sign it out for a night to complete work if necessary.
Ideas - Do you have ideas on ways to level the playing field? Please comment below or email me at mandierobertson@fcschools.net.
As I was sitting here typing this, I was reminded of a goal I had about five years ago. I wanted to leave the charter school to teach in an at-risk school where I could impact a students life in a very real way. At the time, I was thinking inner-city. Today, I realized the universe made it happen. Just wait, our students are going to do amazing things!!
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