Because one of the reasons I continue to teach at an urban comprehensive high school is there is never a dull moment and because some of my previous posts have been just too serious, I have some fun anecdotes to share with you from my first week of teaching freshman and sophmore English.
Anecdote 1:
Me: How was your summer?
Student: Great, Miss. I went to New York.
Me: Wow! That is exciting. What did you do? (At this point, I am thnking about what a culturally rich city it is. How I love Manhatten, its diversity, its amazing museums and food. I am eager to hear his adventures.)
Student: It was so great all I did was watch white girls. (Enter laughter here)
Anecdote 2:
At North Dallas HIgh School, we have gendered classes for freshmen. This was a sad, sad revelation for my young men. Of course, they asked why, and I responded with the usual, “We want you to have as few distractions as possible so you can succeed.” One of them was particularly concerned.
Male Student: So all the boys are in all-boys classes?
Me: Yes. That’s right.
Male Student: But what about the girls?
(Pregnant Pause. Really? Really? Logic, please. At this point, I am laughing hysterically on the inside, but I proceed with dignity and respect for him.)
Me: Yes, the girls, too.
Male: Good. I guess I don’t have to worry about my girl, then.
Yup, deep belly laughs. It keeps me young. It keeps me loving my kids. It keeps me going.
Persistent Pondering 