Miscellaneous Missives

Recently I read the book Stamped by Ibram X, Kendi .  It was a read that taught me so much about assimilation, racism, etc.  Jason Reynolds redid the novel for YA.  NCTE (National Council Teachers of English) had a Zoom tonight with both authors.  It was amazing.  My fellow teachers and I took a hit today about education and digital learning.  Kendi and Reynolds put it into perspective.  It was an amazing hour.  IMHO my school is widening the "achievement gap," these two me and others put it into perspective. It was the best hour of the day.  So much was covered in the hour, but the quote that speaks out to the injustices of today's decisions by our admin is:  " It is not an option not to try."  We have to be present for our students!  They need to get an education.

Today I put together two kids bikes for my friend.  I was a bit nervous when she said they came in a box, but it was doable.  Luckily, she had two neighbors outside that were able to lend an allen wrench since mine were all too small.  The kids were able to ride their bikes in this gorgeous weather.  It was a perfect activity for April and #30daysofbiking.  Of course, I was able to ride my bike later. We even took a walk to get take out from a neighborhood diner and walk through the park on the way back to see what treasures were in the tree.  The twins looked and were going to bring a treasure to add later.  This is spring!!

I knew we wouldn't be going back to school this year.  My logical side said it wouldn't be possible.  Today, however, when Governor Walz made the final announcement, I was still a bit emotional.  Teaching from home is not the same... obvi.  It's difficult.  Even though students can sometimes drive me crazy, I actually really miss them.  With each communication, I see their faces and think of really positive things about each student. Governor Walz made today's announcement with logic and emotion.  It was obvious that it was a tough decision for hm and that he actually cares about students and teachers.  I am proud of our governor.  This is the best decision, but it's still really difficult. 

Working out with P1nk Today I woke up a little irritable with sinus pain all over my face.  I did my morning workout and took Sudafed, but my mood was still a little deflated.  Then I joined P!nk in her Instagram Live workout, and my mood changed. It was fun!!  Later I took my computer outside to work.  I listened to the cardinal and did my work. To make the day complete, I joined my final meeting of the day via my Airpods and iPhone as I drove to the golf course.  My first round of golf this season was decent.  Of course, I followed it up with a bike ride.  I ended the day sitting on my deck with a beer.  #icandothis

Yesterday I was overwhelmed.  To be honest, I really wasn't that productive.  This morning started out with a meeting, and I've already been more productive today than I was all of yesterday.  My goal today is to tackle an outline of what media literacy looks like through digital learning.  I'm afraid of addressing race, gender, sexuality, etc. in the media without having a classroom discussion.  Although I could hold a Google Meet, that has it's own disadvantages when discussing these topics.  Plus, I don't pay that much attention in many Google Meets.  How can I expect my kids to pay attention?

The days are all blending together, and it's beginning to be ordinary.  Life is hectic and boring at the same time, and I'm not really sure how to explain it.  I, however, have been biking each day in April.  Today was 19/19.  It makes me feel somewhat human.  Grading also added a human aspect today. It is clear from the students journals that they are also struggling with this new ordinary.  Funny, how I wish I could see them, so they could drive me crazy.

Still riding every day in April eve if it's short distances. The truth is I'm struggling with this Stay at Home and Distance Learning stuff.  I'm a people person.  I really like people.  I've been trying to keep peace with myself by being active, but it's dang cold outside.  Today was a tough day, and I'm thankful for those folks that still check in on me.  I'll do better tomorrow.  Unfortunately, I have nothing to say about today with the exception that it was exhausting (mentally not physically), and it's not quite 9:00 and time for bed.  Tomorrow's a new day.