Things looked really good in terms of advisory when I wrote my last post.
And I was writing it, the principal was meeting with the lead guidance counselor here, the person who has seen to the million and one logistical considerations from devising the pairings of teachers to run advisory to making sure we had enough photocopies for the binders we distributed… And she told him that she is cutting our program from three to two times a week. Because she needs more instructional time for the students.
Have you ever felt the way the air gets silent still before a storm? That’s how it felt when the guidance counselor told me. I’m not sure why the principal didn’t tell me herself. But no matter.
I’ve thought about giving up on the project. Why bother? Imagine the mind of the middle schooler, doing this activity-thingie twice a week. Three times a week is more than half the days in a week. Twice a week is just some thing that you show up for because you have to. I’m tired of having to fight for a program I believe will be transformative for students and staff, transformative in ways that will pay off in terms of teachers being able to get students to pass tests, as well.
Entries (RSS)
September 23rd, 2008 at 7:08 pm
Two times per week is more than zero times per week. And although I don’t fully know the exact parameters of this advisory program, it sounds like it’s a time and space for students to connect with others as people– without the specter of some kind of academic heavy lifting attached.
Again, Sue, twice a week is better than zero times per week, right?
Hugs.
September 24th, 2008 at 9:09 pm
You’re right… perspective is important. Thanks! Sending a hug back at ya, because…