Through out my own educational journey as an Afro-Latina, I have come to learn that while some educators are in tuned with humanity, specifically the humanity of the demographic they are educating, some are not. It has also been my experience, that even those who do get it are in different stages of development themselves which may pose challenges for them and their educational style.
An example from my childhood that I connect to "care" in education is an experience I periodically reflect on from my middle school days. Writing has always been an outlet for me. Somewhere early on I found that writing my feelings out on paper made them feel more real, more tangible. It was almost like I could prove they existed. I remember my middle school teacher really took interest in me and my writings, specifically my poems. She even went as far as putting extra time into preparing me for the Classical High School entrance exam. When I was accepted, she personally came to find me to share the news before it was announced to school over the loud speaker during end of the day announcements.
This same teacher, did not take the same stock in helping the educational development of one of my peers. His name was Jansel Richards aka Dj Hanz. Jansel was a vibrant, lyrically gifted, Dominican boy. He often interrupted class by rapping lyrics of current artists or free-styling, which is a form of impromptu rap. He also had no fear challenging the teacher when he didn't agree with her teachings. He was so passionate about his craft that he even convinced our English teacher to allow him to sell his first mix tape in class for $3. That was an isolated situation because this teacher often kicked Jansel out of class. Sending him to the office, which often resulted in more severe punishments, such as suspension.
Fast forward in life, I landed long term and stable positions at a local healthcare organization. Which at the very least have afforded me the ability to maintain in life. Jansel went on to create more mix tapes and became a fixture on our local urban radio stations. Unfortunately, he also succumbed to the allure of the streets. Becoming involved in illegal activities. He died of asthma in jail. He was the victim of neglect within the Department of Corrections.
I often reflect on my life experiences and how they have affected where I am today. When this memory comes up, I wonder if my middle school English teacher took the same "care" she took with me, with Jansel; where would he be. Would he be here? Would he be a successful Dj and rapper?
Based on this experience along with many others I continue to strive for growth in the form of healing. It has become evident that when "cared" for intentionally people thrive. I just really want to pay that gem forward during my days on this Earth.
Wow Victoria--what a powerful post. I'm struck first by your reflection upfront that many teachers are not in tune with the humanity of their students (across race, culture, and class). I mean just letting the enormity of that wash over me--it is so painful and profound. And where do we even go from there?
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the story you share about the teacher who supported you alongside your friend who she didn't support. It brings up so many heartbreaking and critical questions and feelings--especially in dialogue with your first point. Could she/they/school systems/ criminal justice systems see Jansel's humanity? His brilliance? Grateful for the gift of this story.
Victoria,
ReplyDeleteThis was such a powerful story you shared, and I love how you closed with the statement, "It has become evident that when "cared" for intentionally people thrive". This has lead me to truly reflect on how I am caring for those whom I come into contact with daily on a teacher student basis to make sure that I am caring for everyone as much as I can.