Well folks. It looks like my trip is not over. Stuck in Cinncinnati..will explain later.
I spent yesterday at another highschool in the Oakland school system. It was definately the toughest one. I could just feel the tension in the neighborhood surrounding the school. As I pulled onto the street three "thug-like" guys locked eyes with me (while still in my car) and gave me this hard cold evil stare. I park, and start walking to the school, but I see them from accross the street and they make some gesture with their hands towards me. I'm not sure if it was like a sexual "come here baby" kinda gesture, or aa agressive "who do you think you are coming into our neighborhood, you white girl" kinda gesture. Either way, I didn't want to find out, so I quickly slipped inside the school.
The school itself was really safe. I observed a few teachers and all but one, the one black teacher seemed to have full control of the classroom. One of the good teachers had her students working on essays on computers, while the other one had them working on a community mapping project. He was cute. But I digress.
I got to see the other side of Oakland. It was a little bit scarier. Like, I said the school was safe, but I could feel the tension outside. Maybe because I felt targetted, or maybe because I have a sense for that kind of stuff. Either way, I'm glad I got to see that. It will really help in making my decision.
I also got an interview from Charleston South Carolina, for a similar program. Everyone that I mention this to tells me how great and pretty of a city Charleston is. I guess I'll have to look into it some more.
I leave the school and head to the rental car place. After stopping twice to try to find food(but parking was so outrageous-at 25 cents for 5 minutes) I went to where the rental car place was. I was late to the train that was to take me to San Jose, but a conductor, seeing me frazzled and panicky tells me that the train i missed stopped at every stop, whereas the one leaving now was an express. There would be a stop where our train would pass the train I needed to be on, so I could get off and wait for that train to catch up. Anyways, it worked and I made it to the airport with plenty of time to spare.
The first flight was terrible. 9:15-10:15. I've been having sinus issues for quite a while, but it was never more then a mere annoyance. Somehow, my sinuses, when up in the air, did not hurt my head or nose as much as it did my teeth/jaw. OHMYGOSH it felt like I had multiple cavities in each teeth. I know I'm not the best at oral hygiene, but I do not think I have any dental problems. The next flight, 11:45-6:50(but it was only three hours long due to time zones) was even worse. I was in perpetual pain the entire time. Once I landed in Cinn., it hurt even to touch my face. So when the opportunity knocked I struck while the Iron was hot. Yep, two cliches in one sentence.
Over the announcements, they tell us that the Albany flight is booked, but that they are offering a $400 travel voucher for anyone who would take a later flight. I come to find out that later flight means taking a flight to Hartford, Conn. and then having a taxi take me to Albany. Either way, it made sense to take it, so I could give my sinuses a rest, and time for medicine to kick in. Plus, $400 for sitting in an airport for 6 hours, that sounds like a good use of my time!!! I ask if its possible if I can get put up in a hotel room for the afternoon. I know it sounds silly, but I wanted a bed to rest in, since I took a red eye flight and only got 3 hours of sleep if that. I also know that they will do almost anything to get you to give up your seat. Well, instead of a hotel, I get access to the "Delta elite club" which is basically like a cruise ship, minus the seasickness and paying for alcoholic drinks. I could get trashed right now and not have to pay a dime, but no I am online...hmm I really need to reevaluate my priorities. I also got some food vouchers, so I think I'm going to take myself to Outback Steakhouse. Should be a good time.
I spoke with my Cousin David yesterday. He's my father's cousin. He is very into traveling and upon hearing that I'm going to South East Asia, and to the school that he helped finance, he has arranged for me to go to the school(in Cambodia) and do a little touring. I am soooo excited!!! Just in talking to him, I got excited about the trip. He has always been a traveler, and wants to encourage it in both me and my brother. Its good that someone in the family wants to encourage that! Anyways, I was really glad to talk to him about traveling and culture and stuff. If nothing else, its the first time we have ever spoken as adults, so that was fun as well. I also have been speaking alot with my Great Uncle Burt, who is David's father, because he is also pivitol in my arrangements in Cambodia. I can't wait!! I am so grateful to both of them for all their help and support!!!
Ok, off to eat, or drink, or just lounge around in this "elite club". I'll probably write again though, since I want to get my money's worth.
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
Monday, February 26, 2007
Layering is Key
So if I learned nothing else on this trip, its that layering is necessary. I thought, "oh I'm going to cali, I won't need a jacket." WRONG! I spent the majority of the day outside, so I was equipped: one tank top, one shirt, 3 sweaters and finally my sweatshirt. But, I was warm.
I walked around Fisherman's wharf first. I'd felt I had seen too much of "local" San Fran and I really wanted to be immersed in tourism. Well, that lasted about 15 minutes. Highlights include buying a necklace, buying a huge icecream I did not finish and getting a free bowl of chili on the street. Then I made my way to the cable car, for $5 a ride. I took the car down to China Town. There was supposed to be some festival down there, but I couldn't find it. Instead I meandered in and out of the streets with no direction or goal. I was starting to get aggitated. I had plans that night to watch the Oscars, and I was nervous about them. Yes, I have been very social this trip, but none of it had long term effects, except for this one. Like, I said, I don't make good first impressions, so I was worried. This could be people I might wanna hang out with in the future. Finally, I call and she is all excited to hear from me and we make the plans. I feel a little more at ease. Someone had told me to check out Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill, so I leave Chinatown, which I couldn't stand for its sameness and fakeness. On my way, I decide to grab something to eat at a deli, and wound up on the phone with my brother most of the time. Next thing I know I'm in a bookstore called City Lights. 2 hours later I leave. I had found the travel section and decided to do some research on my upcoming trip.
Part of me doesn't like traveling, because I feel like I have to do everything all at once, that if I don't I'll be missing out. I think that's why I was soo agitated in Chinatown. I also worry what others wanna do before my own wants, so when I was with myself I was completely aimless. I know sitting in the basement of a bookstore researching travel doesn't sound like a great way to spend time in San Fran for most people it worked for me. I finally felt at ease again.
I then went up to Coit tower, which was quite a hike and got to see the pretty views. I then walked down the other way. OHMYGOSH, the houses/apartments there were amazing. I would def live in one of those if the price is right. They were all so unique and interesting, full of character!! I walked all the way down to the water, and followed the water around. Looking at a tourist map, I realized I almost forgot to go see the sealions!!!! My favorite animal!!! So I started at pier 27 and worked my way to 39, which is basically like a Disney World pier. Honestly, picture Downtown Disney and you basically understand what Pier 39 is like. So after I shopped some shops and saw the sealions, I made my way back towards the hostel. Its interesting, instead of following the pier, I went up a street, and all of a sudden I wasn't a tourist anymore. It's amazing what the difference of one street will do.
Speaking of not being a tourist, many times throughout my trip I have been asked questions like a local, such as "where is the safeway", "is it ok to park here" and comments like "oh you guys must be used to this weather". So that was entertaining.
After being a half an hour late I finally get to Amanda's apartment to watch the Oscars. I didn't realize that it was going to be such an affair. There were about 10 girls there, all gorgeous and perfectly composed. Luckily, I had paired down to 2 layers before I arrived, so I didn't look like a hobo(yes, hobo). Alot of them were dating roomates, and others were friends from college. Everyone had wine glasses. There was cheese and crackers, apple slices, brownies and cupcakes. I only feel bad that I didn't bring anything. I didn't seem to have too much in common with these women, but you know me, that won't stop me. I did have fun, which was good. It was nice to hang out with a bunch of girls and stuff. It was also nice to have a sense of normalcy here. Everywhere I've gone so far has either been for professional reasons, or tourism, so it was nice to have a purely social call.
Today, I am heading to the school that my interviewer is principal at. It's supposed to be one of the worst. We'll see how it goes I guess. Once I mentioned my interest she seemed very impressed. I don't think she would try to get someone to visit a school after an interview, if the candidate didn't have a good shot at getting the job, so we'll see.
I need to get going, my time is almost up, literally on the computer and in San Fransisco. I am flying back tonight, but don't arrive in Albany until 11am ish on Tuesday, where I get to work at the JCC, hang out with my brother and throw myself a going away party Wed night. So if you are around, let me know! Then I leave for Thailand on Friday, so I probably wont' post again till then.
Bye!!
I walked around Fisherman's wharf first. I'd felt I had seen too much of "local" San Fran and I really wanted to be immersed in tourism. Well, that lasted about 15 minutes. Highlights include buying a necklace, buying a huge icecream I did not finish and getting a free bowl of chili on the street. Then I made my way to the cable car, for $5 a ride. I took the car down to China Town. There was supposed to be some festival down there, but I couldn't find it. Instead I meandered in and out of the streets with no direction or goal. I was starting to get aggitated. I had plans that night to watch the Oscars, and I was nervous about them. Yes, I have been very social this trip, but none of it had long term effects, except for this one. Like, I said, I don't make good first impressions, so I was worried. This could be people I might wanna hang out with in the future. Finally, I call and she is all excited to hear from me and we make the plans. I feel a little more at ease. Someone had told me to check out Coit Tower and Telegraph Hill, so I leave Chinatown, which I couldn't stand for its sameness and fakeness. On my way, I decide to grab something to eat at a deli, and wound up on the phone with my brother most of the time. Next thing I know I'm in a bookstore called City Lights. 2 hours later I leave. I had found the travel section and decided to do some research on my upcoming trip.
Part of me doesn't like traveling, because I feel like I have to do everything all at once, that if I don't I'll be missing out. I think that's why I was soo agitated in Chinatown. I also worry what others wanna do before my own wants, so when I was with myself I was completely aimless. I know sitting in the basement of a bookstore researching travel doesn't sound like a great way to spend time in San Fran for most people it worked for me. I finally felt at ease again.
I then went up to Coit tower, which was quite a hike and got to see the pretty views. I then walked down the other way. OHMYGOSH, the houses/apartments there were amazing. I would def live in one of those if the price is right. They were all so unique and interesting, full of character!! I walked all the way down to the water, and followed the water around. Looking at a tourist map, I realized I almost forgot to go see the sealions!!!! My favorite animal!!! So I started at pier 27 and worked my way to 39, which is basically like a Disney World pier. Honestly, picture Downtown Disney and you basically understand what Pier 39 is like. So after I shopped some shops and saw the sealions, I made my way back towards the hostel. Its interesting, instead of following the pier, I went up a street, and all of a sudden I wasn't a tourist anymore. It's amazing what the difference of one street will do.
Speaking of not being a tourist, many times throughout my trip I have been asked questions like a local, such as "where is the safeway", "is it ok to park here" and comments like "oh you guys must be used to this weather". So that was entertaining.
After being a half an hour late I finally get to Amanda's apartment to watch the Oscars. I didn't realize that it was going to be such an affair. There were about 10 girls there, all gorgeous and perfectly composed. Luckily, I had paired down to 2 layers before I arrived, so I didn't look like a hobo(yes, hobo). Alot of them were dating roomates, and others were friends from college. Everyone had wine glasses. There was cheese and crackers, apple slices, brownies and cupcakes. I only feel bad that I didn't bring anything. I didn't seem to have too much in common with these women, but you know me, that won't stop me. I did have fun, which was good. It was nice to hang out with a bunch of girls and stuff. It was also nice to have a sense of normalcy here. Everywhere I've gone so far has either been for professional reasons, or tourism, so it was nice to have a purely social call.
Today, I am heading to the school that my interviewer is principal at. It's supposed to be one of the worst. We'll see how it goes I guess. Once I mentioned my interest she seemed very impressed. I don't think she would try to get someone to visit a school after an interview, if the candidate didn't have a good shot at getting the job, so we'll see.
I need to get going, my time is almost up, literally on the computer and in San Fransisco. I am flying back tonight, but don't arrive in Albany until 11am ish on Tuesday, where I get to work at the JCC, hang out with my brother and throw myself a going away party Wed night. So if you are around, let me know! Then I leave for Thailand on Friday, so I probably wont' post again till then.
Bye!!
Sunday, February 25, 2007
Interview Day
So after freaking out about what I want to do with my hair, yes this is what I was most worried about-I decide to take Julies advice and buy a clip. Voila-I looked as perfect as I was going to look.
I arrive 10 minutes before they told us to, in order to be early, and so did about half the candidates so we got to talk alot. They all seemed really nice and really driven. I didn't hear of anyone else in the Social Studies speciality though. I met a girl named Amanda who was from Penn. upon talking, she tells me that she used to visit Albany alot, b/c her boyfriend lived in a little town north of it called Clifton Park. We are instantly friends. She later invites me over to her place for the Oscars. Instead of looking for a job and then moving she did the opposite. I also met a lesbian. This is kinda a big deal, because as much as I hate this about myself I do tend to be very homophobic. We were in the same interview group and she told me after the fact, and it didn't change my opnion of her whatsoever. Maybe I'm growing up!
The interview began with a teacher explaining her experiences. Then we were split up into smaller groups. In total there were 12 candidates, so each group was about 3 or 4, mine was 4. Our first task was to pretend we are a group of teachers who are having a behavior management problem and how we together will solve it. I thought I did pretty well with that! I'm always good in groups. The next task was a similar scenerio, but academic issues, and we had to write our solutions instead of talk them out. Finally, we were scheduled for interviews and simply waited around.
The interview which I was very nervous about was almost all scenerios or situations. They didn't even ask me my biggest strengths and weaknesses!!!! It lasted about 1/2 an hour. I'm not sure how well I did at that, because I tend to be very long winded and overexplain myself, and I couldn't gague whether that was an endearing quality or a deal breaker. I guess time will tell.
After that I went around to check out some different areas I could live in if I got the job. While it's jumping the gun a little, I probably wont' have the chance to be here again, if I get the job without the need of immediate housing. I checked out a few appartment complexes and except for the lofts(which are the COOLEST THINGS EVER), they are essentially the same, so I decided that my new tactic should be checking out the vibe of the different areas. I found about 5 or 6 different areas, that I can easily find on craigslist to look into.
Heading back to San Fran, I was soo emotionally exhausted. Julie called and told me she is planning a trip to NJ for a friend we used to work with and wants me to come. A few hours later, my brother tells me he wants me to go with him to Florida at the end of May. Plus I am also planning on going to Israel sometime this year. Plus the whole Thailand, Vietnam thing. And if I get this job I will be moving cross country. This is a big year for me I guess.
If I do get this job, there is this thing called the GAP Israel trip, which stands for graduates and professionals. 22-26. There is one specifically for the San Fran area. I think it would be great to go on that trip with Jewish people I will be living amoungst, as a way to acclimate myself and make some friends.
At the hostel, I ate some dinner and then ran into my English friend and we FINALLY watched Grey's Anatomy. It was rather intense. I was in bed by 10pm.
I realized many things yesterday. I really don't mind being alone and traveling alone and even eating alone at restaurants. I like the idea that I don't have to have a constant need to please others. I like that I can do whatever I want. I also realized though, that I don't wanna be alone all the time though. I like how my English friend has been there every night to talk to. It was like having a roomate(try like 7 roomates, but still). I think if I move anywhere, I will try to get a roomate. I further realized, that I am very friendly. I mean I always knew I was, but literally everyone I talk to becomes my instant best friend. I really do have a talent I think. That, or people in this area are just very friendly. My last realization, is that I really need to take care of myself. I was so exhausted yesterday because I kept pushing myself and forcing myself to keep doing, without much rest. I need to give myself time to breathe, cope and rest. I am not invincible.
Aright, I have to make a few phone calls and then head to a Chinese street fair in China Town. Yipee.
I arrive 10 minutes before they told us to, in order to be early, and so did about half the candidates so we got to talk alot. They all seemed really nice and really driven. I didn't hear of anyone else in the Social Studies speciality though. I met a girl named Amanda who was from Penn. upon talking, she tells me that she used to visit Albany alot, b/c her boyfriend lived in a little town north of it called Clifton Park. We are instantly friends. She later invites me over to her place for the Oscars. Instead of looking for a job and then moving she did the opposite. I also met a lesbian. This is kinda a big deal, because as much as I hate this about myself I do tend to be very homophobic. We were in the same interview group and she told me after the fact, and it didn't change my opnion of her whatsoever. Maybe I'm growing up!
The interview began with a teacher explaining her experiences. Then we were split up into smaller groups. In total there were 12 candidates, so each group was about 3 or 4, mine was 4. Our first task was to pretend we are a group of teachers who are having a behavior management problem and how we together will solve it. I thought I did pretty well with that! I'm always good in groups. The next task was a similar scenerio, but academic issues, and we had to write our solutions instead of talk them out. Finally, we were scheduled for interviews and simply waited around.
The interview which I was very nervous about was almost all scenerios or situations. They didn't even ask me my biggest strengths and weaknesses!!!! It lasted about 1/2 an hour. I'm not sure how well I did at that, because I tend to be very long winded and overexplain myself, and I couldn't gague whether that was an endearing quality or a deal breaker. I guess time will tell.
After that I went around to check out some different areas I could live in if I got the job. While it's jumping the gun a little, I probably wont' have the chance to be here again, if I get the job without the need of immediate housing. I checked out a few appartment complexes and except for the lofts(which are the COOLEST THINGS EVER), they are essentially the same, so I decided that my new tactic should be checking out the vibe of the different areas. I found about 5 or 6 different areas, that I can easily find on craigslist to look into.
Heading back to San Fran, I was soo emotionally exhausted. Julie called and told me she is planning a trip to NJ for a friend we used to work with and wants me to come. A few hours later, my brother tells me he wants me to go with him to Florida at the end of May. Plus I am also planning on going to Israel sometime this year. Plus the whole Thailand, Vietnam thing. And if I get this job I will be moving cross country. This is a big year for me I guess.
If I do get this job, there is this thing called the GAP Israel trip, which stands for graduates and professionals. 22-26. There is one specifically for the San Fran area. I think it would be great to go on that trip with Jewish people I will be living amoungst, as a way to acclimate myself and make some friends.
At the hostel, I ate some dinner and then ran into my English friend and we FINALLY watched Grey's Anatomy. It was rather intense. I was in bed by 10pm.
I realized many things yesterday. I really don't mind being alone and traveling alone and even eating alone at restaurants. I like the idea that I don't have to have a constant need to please others. I like that I can do whatever I want. I also realized though, that I don't wanna be alone all the time though. I like how my English friend has been there every night to talk to. It was like having a roomate(try like 7 roomates, but still). I think if I move anywhere, I will try to get a roomate. I further realized, that I am very friendly. I mean I always knew I was, but literally everyone I talk to becomes my instant best friend. I really do have a talent I think. That, or people in this area are just very friendly. My last realization, is that I really need to take care of myself. I was so exhausted yesterday because I kept pushing myself and forcing myself to keep doing, without much rest. I need to give myself time to breathe, cope and rest. I am not invincible.
Aright, I have to make a few phone calls and then head to a Chinese street fair in China Town. Yipee.
Saturday, February 24, 2007
One day til Interview
The Euphoric bubble burst a little bit today. If nothing else, I was so high, the only way to go was down. Now, I feel like I have a realistic understanding of the situation. My biggest worries were personal safety and if it was worth it. It was definately safe from what I saw, and it might be difficult but it does seem possible. All I needed to see was the possiblity.
I went to one of the middle school and observed a teacher I've been speaking to on the phone about her experiences. She seemed to really struggle with behavior management, especially in one of her later classes. However, I did pick up on many different schemes she used to keep them on task, which for the most part seemed very effective. I also was able to observe a class taught by an older Black woman, a 30 something white man who grew up in Oakland, and then a young white female who is teaching through Teach for America. They all had different ways of dealing with the students and different successes. I was brought back into reality by seeing the classes in this middle school. Yet, it didn't seem impossible, and that's all I needed to see.
Right as I left school a minor earthquake occured which shook me a little bit. San Fransisco is not exactly the most physically stable region and feeling one while I was here for less then a week was a little unerving, but oh well.
After school I traveled to Berkely. If I do get the job, this is where I would look into living. It's a little bohemian area where everyone seems to be between twenty two and thirty five. I got a mani, a pedi and a facial. I figure I should treat myself before this interview. The less stress I'm under the better. After all the pampering I took myself to a chinese restaurant before heading back to the Wharf.
I am incredibly nervous about this interview. I am not someone who makes good first impressions. Most people upon meeting me, don't quite know what to do with me. It's not until the 4th meeting I'd say, that I make that "good" impression. I also know I tend to be unintentionally very negative and judgemental. Although I don't mean it the way it comes out, it doesn't matter. So I really need to monitor how the words come out of my mouth even more then the words themselves. I've been polling various people to ask them what they think my strengths and weaknesses are and I've been trying to answer generic interview questions in preparation. Hopefully it goes well. As Adrianna said, once I'm committed to something, I see it through to the end. I'm committed to teaching here and potentially living out here for the next couple of years at least.
So here goes nothing.
I went to one of the middle school and observed a teacher I've been speaking to on the phone about her experiences. She seemed to really struggle with behavior management, especially in one of her later classes. However, I did pick up on many different schemes she used to keep them on task, which for the most part seemed very effective. I also was able to observe a class taught by an older Black woman, a 30 something white man who grew up in Oakland, and then a young white female who is teaching through Teach for America. They all had different ways of dealing with the students and different successes. I was brought back into reality by seeing the classes in this middle school. Yet, it didn't seem impossible, and that's all I needed to see.
Right as I left school a minor earthquake occured which shook me a little bit. San Fransisco is not exactly the most physically stable region and feeling one while I was here for less then a week was a little unerving, but oh well.
After school I traveled to Berkely. If I do get the job, this is where I would look into living. It's a little bohemian area where everyone seems to be between twenty two and thirty five. I got a mani, a pedi and a facial. I figure I should treat myself before this interview. The less stress I'm under the better. After all the pampering I took myself to a chinese restaurant before heading back to the Wharf.
I am incredibly nervous about this interview. I am not someone who makes good first impressions. Most people upon meeting me, don't quite know what to do with me. It's not until the 4th meeting I'd say, that I make that "good" impression. I also know I tend to be unintentionally very negative and judgemental. Although I don't mean it the way it comes out, it doesn't matter. So I really need to monitor how the words come out of my mouth even more then the words themselves. I've been polling various people to ask them what they think my strengths and weaknesses are and I've been trying to answer generic interview questions in preparation. Hopefully it goes well. As Adrianna said, once I'm committed to something, I see it through to the end. I'm committed to teaching here and potentially living out here for the next couple of years at least.
So here goes nothing.
Friday, February 23, 2007
and I'm in love...
I wanted to make sure to post this after I observed at the highschool and before I went to the middle school. In case for some reason my opinions changed, I wanted to at least have a record of my euphoric opinions at the highschool.
So after I blogged yesterday, I went to grab my car. The hostel said that there would be free parking, but they didn't mention that the lot would be a few blocks away. I'm not sure that would sit well on the advertising perhaps. Oh, and I had already showered and was dressed, and it was pooring rain. So I bartered with the front desk guy for an umbrella and headed down. Then I got some breakfast and sat with the English girl. I really should learn her name.
Then, I was off. After getting lost probably twice, I made it to Oakland Tech, parked at the Burger King accross the street and ventured inside. I was impressed already by the magnitute of the school. It reminded me of the school in 10 things I hate about you, although obviously not that grand. It looked like a capitol building or something. So, I walk in and head to the main office when a gruff female voice asks me "what's my business here". I apologize for walking past her and sign in. I tell her that I'm going to see Mr. F but I'm not quite sure where the room is. A female student overhears me, welcomes me to the school and says "hold on, I'll go find out where the room is and walk you up myself." I'm even more impressed. So as the two of us walk up, we spoke. She explained to me that alot of the Oakland highschools have different specialties. Obviously this one was technology, but there were others for engineering, education and some others. I'm not a detail person. I assume she is a senior and ask her, she says she's a junior. I ask her hesitatingly if she has any plans. She says, she is graduating and wants to be a pediatrician. I'm incredibly impressed at this point. Not many juniors in general, let alone juniors in this type of population know what they wanna do when they grow up. So as we are walking, there are a group of guys talking and whatnot, and one is telling some story and a few really bad sware words come out of his mouth. I look at him, half smirking and half incredulous but keep walking, as I hear him say "I am soo sorry, I did not mean to disrespect you like that." At Shen, if I would have caught students saying words like that, they would have either ignored me, or apologized only to avoid punishment. This student apologized knowing I had no authority to punish. I'm floored.
So I walk in, late, to Mr. F's room and sit down. Of course I'm the center of attention as some of the students are already trying to "hook me up" with the teacher, who is young and white. Oh, by the way, in the entire 5 classes I observed not a single student was white. Most were black, a few hispanic and the rest some type of Asian decent. Anyways, so the class is moving sort of slow. Mr. F tells me there are supposed to be nearly 30 kids in this class and I see about 16. It's world history, 10th grade, but some of them are repeaters. The period is 57 minutes long and about 30 minutes in the fire alarm rings. Instead of going outside(it was cold and wet) we stayed inside, knowing it was just a drill. We re-enter the class. 5 minutes later the alarm goes off again. 1 of the students begin to head to the door, while two of them shout out "we know its fake, why don't we just get through this stuff instead." If there is a word beyond floored to describe myself, please insert here. I was amazed, if nothing else.
2nd period was smaller and also 10th grade. They were so quiet it was ridiculous. 3rd period was 11th graders. Mr. F told me there was a marked difference between the two grades. He said the first visible difference is that most of the students show up. In 10th grade they can't drop out legally, so they just don't go to class. The 11th graders were present and active. I mean they weren't nerdy about it, but when asked for opinions or participation of any kind, at least 5 or 6 of the students give it freely. They really respected Mr. F, and me. Every class that Mr. F introduced me too, waved at me and was all excited to see me. There are 10th and 11th graders by the way, not 1st graders. 4th period was HUGE, nearly 30 students. They fought(with words) the teacher on a few concepts, but did so in such an elequent and educated manner. He said this class was being really good today.
After 4th period the whole school has lunch. I would think that it would be a recipie for disaster, but it works. There are many local eating places nearby, and it seems that the lunch crowd coming from the school sustains them. After buying some pizza, I go back to Mr. F's room where he has about 10 some odd students hanging out, eating and enjoying themselves. Walking by the other classrooms in the hallway I found the same thing happening. These kids really seem to care about school and like their teachers.
5th period he had off and we chatted for a while, until a student came in, who had gotten kicked out of his class, and came into Mr. F's room just to talk. He was telling us about all the jobs he had, and that because his "auntie" works at the movie theatre, he has been able to move up to assistant manager. He also had fun shoes on.
6th period, it seemed about 5 students showed up to. They were similar to 2nd period in their lack luster, but they got through the material and were participatory when necessary.
Overall, I was extremely impressed. On a whole the students have a passion. They seem to want to learn. Mr. F did tell me that many of the students are not passing, and he has done things like lesson homework loads and whatnot, to try to keep them afloat. What I saw though, was kids who are overall respectful, and kids who care. They all seemed to get along with each other, and they all seemed to get along with the security guards posted around the school, and the teachers. Many of the students seemed to have like "work study jobs" in college, working at the desk, helping out with attendence. My two biggest fears about working in this population; safety/violence and no respect for others was not true in this setting. Mr. F told me that this school was one of the better ones, and that "Oakland High" was not as high performing as this school. Honestly, I don't need straight A students to wanna teach there, I want students who want to learn but don't have the proper resources, and who have respect for others.
After school I came back to the hostel to change and then walked around the wharf area for a while. I ate at a Mexican restaurant bymyself. That was an interesting experience. I came back, got hit on by an old guy, did some reading and then ran into my English friend again. We spent the rest of the evening together talking, drinking tea(i'm sick, I had tea twice today), and we tried to watch the episode of grey's anatomy from last night on her laptop but alas it hadn't been posted yet. So we are going to try tonight.
Ok, breakfast time and then off to see the middle school.
So after I blogged yesterday, I went to grab my car. The hostel said that there would be free parking, but they didn't mention that the lot would be a few blocks away. I'm not sure that would sit well on the advertising perhaps. Oh, and I had already showered and was dressed, and it was pooring rain. So I bartered with the front desk guy for an umbrella and headed down. Then I got some breakfast and sat with the English girl. I really should learn her name.
Then, I was off. After getting lost probably twice, I made it to Oakland Tech, parked at the Burger King accross the street and ventured inside. I was impressed already by the magnitute of the school. It reminded me of the school in 10 things I hate about you, although obviously not that grand. It looked like a capitol building or something. So, I walk in and head to the main office when a gruff female voice asks me "what's my business here". I apologize for walking past her and sign in. I tell her that I'm going to see Mr. F but I'm not quite sure where the room is. A female student overhears me, welcomes me to the school and says "hold on, I'll go find out where the room is and walk you up myself." I'm even more impressed. So as the two of us walk up, we spoke. She explained to me that alot of the Oakland highschools have different specialties. Obviously this one was technology, but there were others for engineering, education and some others. I'm not a detail person. I assume she is a senior and ask her, she says she's a junior. I ask her hesitatingly if she has any plans. She says, she is graduating and wants to be a pediatrician. I'm incredibly impressed at this point. Not many juniors in general, let alone juniors in this type of population know what they wanna do when they grow up. So as we are walking, there are a group of guys talking and whatnot, and one is telling some story and a few really bad sware words come out of his mouth. I look at him, half smirking and half incredulous but keep walking, as I hear him say "I am soo sorry, I did not mean to disrespect you like that." At Shen, if I would have caught students saying words like that, they would have either ignored me, or apologized only to avoid punishment. This student apologized knowing I had no authority to punish. I'm floored.
So I walk in, late, to Mr. F's room and sit down. Of course I'm the center of attention as some of the students are already trying to "hook me up" with the teacher, who is young and white. Oh, by the way, in the entire 5 classes I observed not a single student was white. Most were black, a few hispanic and the rest some type of Asian decent. Anyways, so the class is moving sort of slow. Mr. F tells me there are supposed to be nearly 30 kids in this class and I see about 16. It's world history, 10th grade, but some of them are repeaters. The period is 57 minutes long and about 30 minutes in the fire alarm rings. Instead of going outside(it was cold and wet) we stayed inside, knowing it was just a drill. We re-enter the class. 5 minutes later the alarm goes off again. 1 of the students begin to head to the door, while two of them shout out "we know its fake, why don't we just get through this stuff instead." If there is a word beyond floored to describe myself, please insert here. I was amazed, if nothing else.
2nd period was smaller and also 10th grade. They were so quiet it was ridiculous. 3rd period was 11th graders. Mr. F told me there was a marked difference between the two grades. He said the first visible difference is that most of the students show up. In 10th grade they can't drop out legally, so they just don't go to class. The 11th graders were present and active. I mean they weren't nerdy about it, but when asked for opinions or participation of any kind, at least 5 or 6 of the students give it freely. They really respected Mr. F, and me. Every class that Mr. F introduced me too, waved at me and was all excited to see me. There are 10th and 11th graders by the way, not 1st graders. 4th period was HUGE, nearly 30 students. They fought(with words) the teacher on a few concepts, but did so in such an elequent and educated manner. He said this class was being really good today.
After 4th period the whole school has lunch. I would think that it would be a recipie for disaster, but it works. There are many local eating places nearby, and it seems that the lunch crowd coming from the school sustains them. After buying some pizza, I go back to Mr. F's room where he has about 10 some odd students hanging out, eating and enjoying themselves. Walking by the other classrooms in the hallway I found the same thing happening. These kids really seem to care about school and like their teachers.
5th period he had off and we chatted for a while, until a student came in, who had gotten kicked out of his class, and came into Mr. F's room just to talk. He was telling us about all the jobs he had, and that because his "auntie" works at the movie theatre, he has been able to move up to assistant manager. He also had fun shoes on.
6th period, it seemed about 5 students showed up to. They were similar to 2nd period in their lack luster, but they got through the material and were participatory when necessary.
Overall, I was extremely impressed. On a whole the students have a passion. They seem to want to learn. Mr. F did tell me that many of the students are not passing, and he has done things like lesson homework loads and whatnot, to try to keep them afloat. What I saw though, was kids who are overall respectful, and kids who care. They all seemed to get along with each other, and they all seemed to get along with the security guards posted around the school, and the teachers. Many of the students seemed to have like "work study jobs" in college, working at the desk, helping out with attendence. My two biggest fears about working in this population; safety/violence and no respect for others was not true in this setting. Mr. F told me that this school was one of the better ones, and that "Oakland High" was not as high performing as this school. Honestly, I don't need straight A students to wanna teach there, I want students who want to learn but don't have the proper resources, and who have respect for others.
After school I came back to the hostel to change and then walked around the wharf area for a while. I ate at a Mexican restaurant bymyself. That was an interesting experience. I came back, got hit on by an old guy, did some reading and then ran into my English friend again. We spent the rest of the evening together talking, drinking tea(i'm sick, I had tea twice today), and we tried to watch the episode of grey's anatomy from last night on her laptop but alas it hadn't been posted yet. So we are going to try tonight.
Ok, breakfast time and then off to see the middle school.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
Arrival in San Francisco
It's 6am on Thursday morning here and I finally have a few minutes to update on my fantastic adventure.
It began at 4am Wednesday Morning (EST) (after not going to bed until midnight because someone kinda forgot to rework her portfolio in December like she was supposed to...). I left my house to bring my car to Long Term parking. I parked in about two feet of snow, but hey I saved myself the 8 more dollars it would have been to park it in the parking structure. Man, I'm cheap.
The plane has 36 seats on it. I am not lying about this. It was one of those Connectors, just down to Kennedy airport. I slept. Our plane arrived literally in the gate of the other plane I was to take. I board this plane. I am in the last possible row, next to a really cute guy. He's from Canada(what's with me and Canadians), although I'm not sure if I would really consider Niagara Falls Canada. I come to find out he has a bachelors and masters in Poli Sci and Econ. I'm a fan. We talked for the beginning of the trip and he was really nice. On a five hour plane they gave us no meal, which was wicked cheap, so he snuck two more of the "snack" packages they give us. Also, I am very excited because they have those personal screens, where you can choose whatever you want to watch. Yeah, except now, you must pay for everything except for live Television. RIDIC!!! I was not too happy about this. My Canadian friend bought a game though, and after he got bored with it, let me play for a while, so that was nice as well. I think he might be on the same plane I am on in return as well. Something to look forward to.
After grabbing some lunch, I board my final plane from L.A. to San Jose. It has 30 seats on it. I sleep. I finally arrive, and then the fun begins. I am supposed to find a shuttle bus to take me to the Santa Clara Train Station, buy a ticket, take it to the 22nd Street stop, call the rental car place, wait for them to pick me up and drive me to my rental car. This hassle was the difference between spending $300 for a car, and spending $135. Well worth it, in my point of view. It all went smoothly. The train took over an hour though, which after more then 7 hours on planes started to get a little old. Oh, and I sat in the senior citizens section. I'm a jerk.
So I finally get to the rental car place. It's called Rent-a-Wreck. They aren't kidding. I get a Kia Sephia, 2001, with a monumental dent in the trunk, scratches all over, the brake light thing in the back smashed, and one of the fenders dent as well. I don't know cars, so you'll have to bear with me and my terminology. While I am cheap, there was actually thought behind this rental car. Since I am traveling to Inner City Oakland for the next three days, I thought it better to drive in something "worn in", then like a brand new Chrysler Seabring. So I pay my money and begin my carride to the hostel.
I really need to learn how to pay attention to detail. Instead of hearing the exact directions that the rental car gave me, I saw the smile and ease that he told me it, and assumed "oh this will be easy". Yeah, it would have been if I would have LISTENED to his DAMN directions. Luckily I'm pretty good with maps, and he gave me one of those too. After about an hour (est. trip time should have been 15 minutes maybe), I finally find my hostel. Yes, I said hostel. I know most of you think that hostels are stupid, or unsafe, or unclean, and it could have been possible, it wasn't in this case. $100 for 5 nights is not a bad deal. Plus, since I'm alone, I have plenty of people to talk to who are also alone. I made friends with someone from Peru and England yesterday. It's also nice because they have a little cafe inside the hostel, because its not an on the street hostel, its literally on the wharf, and places to eat are a decent walk away, and I got ravioli alfredo with salad for $5. Not bad, I say. So after speaking to Patrick, the teacher I'm supposed to be observing tomorrow I head to sleep(around 9pm).
It's always interesting to me to see all the different people that work and sleep at the hostel. I always wonder their stories, and usually bluntly ask them about that. It's just my style. I find it so interesting to see what people do who aren't from upstate NY, who aren't in a rush to grow up or a rush to get married or in a rush to settle down. One girl I spoke to spend the last year living in Canada and is now slowly traveling her way back home. I wish I could do something like that. I mean I guess I am a little, but not to the extent that most other countries youth do. Oh well.
I awake around 5:30am, even though my alarm was set for 6. I go to take a shower. I must have forgotten the whole communal aspect to Hosteling, and brought no sandels with me. Now, I am constantly worried I will have sometype of disease. Not cool. After observing I am asking someone where I can buy some sandels to shower in. I'm sure I'll need some for Thailand/Vietnam as well.
So now, I'm wasting time until breakfast is served. I'd really like to walk along the wharf or explore the city a little, but first of all I'm busy and second of all its supposed to be raining.
I'm a little nervous about checking out this school. I had a dream that I already went and the school was completely to my liking. I hope that its the same in real life.
I also, got an interview at another program I applied to for teaching in California Charter Schools, but they want me to interview in LA this weekend or San Fran next month. Neither of which I can do, obv. So I'm gonna call them, and see if I can work out interviewing here, since I will be here until Monday, and I do have access to a car. We'll see though.
7am. Time for bfast. Peace out, yo.
It began at 4am Wednesday Morning (EST) (after not going to bed until midnight because someone kinda forgot to rework her portfolio in December like she was supposed to...). I left my house to bring my car to Long Term parking. I parked in about two feet of snow, but hey I saved myself the 8 more dollars it would have been to park it in the parking structure. Man, I'm cheap.
The plane has 36 seats on it. I am not lying about this. It was one of those Connectors, just down to Kennedy airport. I slept. Our plane arrived literally in the gate of the other plane I was to take. I board this plane. I am in the last possible row, next to a really cute guy. He's from Canada(what's with me and Canadians), although I'm not sure if I would really consider Niagara Falls Canada. I come to find out he has a bachelors and masters in Poli Sci and Econ. I'm a fan. We talked for the beginning of the trip and he was really nice. On a five hour plane they gave us no meal, which was wicked cheap, so he snuck two more of the "snack" packages they give us. Also, I am very excited because they have those personal screens, where you can choose whatever you want to watch. Yeah, except now, you must pay for everything except for live Television. RIDIC!!! I was not too happy about this. My Canadian friend bought a game though, and after he got bored with it, let me play for a while, so that was nice as well. I think he might be on the same plane I am on in return as well. Something to look forward to.
After grabbing some lunch, I board my final plane from L.A. to San Jose. It has 30 seats on it. I sleep. I finally arrive, and then the fun begins. I am supposed to find a shuttle bus to take me to the Santa Clara Train Station, buy a ticket, take it to the 22nd Street stop, call the rental car place, wait for them to pick me up and drive me to my rental car. This hassle was the difference between spending $300 for a car, and spending $135. Well worth it, in my point of view. It all went smoothly. The train took over an hour though, which after more then 7 hours on planes started to get a little old. Oh, and I sat in the senior citizens section. I'm a jerk.
So I finally get to the rental car place. It's called Rent-a-Wreck. They aren't kidding. I get a Kia Sephia, 2001, with a monumental dent in the trunk, scratches all over, the brake light thing in the back smashed, and one of the fenders dent as well. I don't know cars, so you'll have to bear with me and my terminology. While I am cheap, there was actually thought behind this rental car. Since I am traveling to Inner City Oakland for the next three days, I thought it better to drive in something "worn in", then like a brand new Chrysler Seabring. So I pay my money and begin my carride to the hostel.
I really need to learn how to pay attention to detail. Instead of hearing the exact directions that the rental car gave me, I saw the smile and ease that he told me it, and assumed "oh this will be easy". Yeah, it would have been if I would have LISTENED to his DAMN directions. Luckily I'm pretty good with maps, and he gave me one of those too. After about an hour (est. trip time should have been 15 minutes maybe), I finally find my hostel. Yes, I said hostel. I know most of you think that hostels are stupid, or unsafe, or unclean, and it could have been possible, it wasn't in this case. $100 for 5 nights is not a bad deal. Plus, since I'm alone, I have plenty of people to talk to who are also alone. I made friends with someone from Peru and England yesterday. It's also nice because they have a little cafe inside the hostel, because its not an on the street hostel, its literally on the wharf, and places to eat are a decent walk away, and I got ravioli alfredo with salad for $5. Not bad, I say. So after speaking to Patrick, the teacher I'm supposed to be observing tomorrow I head to sleep(around 9pm).
It's always interesting to me to see all the different people that work and sleep at the hostel. I always wonder their stories, and usually bluntly ask them about that. It's just my style. I find it so interesting to see what people do who aren't from upstate NY, who aren't in a rush to grow up or a rush to get married or in a rush to settle down. One girl I spoke to spend the last year living in Canada and is now slowly traveling her way back home. I wish I could do something like that. I mean I guess I am a little, but not to the extent that most other countries youth do. Oh well.
I awake around 5:30am, even though my alarm was set for 6. I go to take a shower. I must have forgotten the whole communal aspect to Hosteling, and brought no sandels with me. Now, I am constantly worried I will have sometype of disease. Not cool. After observing I am asking someone where I can buy some sandels to shower in. I'm sure I'll need some for Thailand/Vietnam as well.
So now, I'm wasting time until breakfast is served. I'd really like to walk along the wharf or explore the city a little, but first of all I'm busy and second of all its supposed to be raining.
I'm a little nervous about checking out this school. I had a dream that I already went and the school was completely to my liking. I hope that its the same in real life.
I also, got an interview at another program I applied to for teaching in California Charter Schools, but they want me to interview in LA this weekend or San Fran next month. Neither of which I can do, obv. So I'm gonna call them, and see if I can work out interviewing here, since I will be here until Monday, and I do have access to a car. We'll see though.
7am. Time for bfast. Peace out, yo.
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