I didn't think it possible, but I have decided to change careers from the teaching profession to interior design. I will no longer be a teacher in the traditional sense of the word. However, I believe I will always be an educator because of the mere fact that I am always infuriated by the inequities of the educational system for African American children. As a former teacher working in the system, I have always tried my best to make up in a way for those inequities but like a running train, I was always trying to play catch up. Without the support of parents, administrators and state officials, you will just be spinning your wheels. Nonetheless, I still try and I will always be a teacher at "heart," forever concerned about the plight of children who need to be loved and need to learn for their own sakes and society's.
African American children need a place in this society or else, they will continue to do the things they are doing---killings, high pregnancy rate, drop outs, etc. Just what are we preparing them for? The school system has failed, society has failed, parents have failed and some teachers have failed. But I am the eternal optimist. I don't presuppose that I have all the answers, but I still try and give love and education to ALL children that I come in contact with. Even though the problems are gargantuan, my little efforts may just have a great impact.
So there in lies a possible solution---as many people as possible should seed
into the lives of children. I know that they sometimes don't give us much hope and enthusiasm for doing so with all the problems, attitudes and issues they bring to the table, but a kind word, even when they are being ugly goes a long way.Our children are hurting.....their behavior shows it. I will continue to make change and care, but just not in the system that, I believe, undervalues teachers and students.
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