Remembering Henry

Civil Disobedience

        I have been teaching 10th and 11th grade students about Civil Disobedience. I want them to understand that they have a moral obligation to fight against injustice. Some of my students "got it" others, .... not so much. My students are in a school system that is one of the best in the state. Many have been taught to obey the law not matter what. However, my African American students are very aware of the murders on unarmed teens. The African American students were more likely to understand the need for civil disobedience.  

      The most important aspect of teaching English is to have students make their own connections with the text;that is the only way text can come alive. Thoreau's philosophy on Civil Disobedience is relevant today , and I'm doing everything in my power to keep it alive. 

Give Me Water - John Forte & Valerie June

John Forte - Upon Closer Examination

Natasha Trethewey

Believe the Hype!!!

Give Love on Christmas Day

Give love at Christmas Time

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas

Loving this children's author

Every blue moon the muse sends a gifted children's artist that captures the hearts of the readers. My favorite new(to me) author is Barbara Esham. Last summer, Mrs. Gorski, I think I Have the Wiggle Fidgets was offered as a free download on Kindle. My nine-year old loved. loved, and really loved the story. Wiggle Fidgets centers on the mishaps of a little boy who has a challenging time sitting still and paying attention in class. Does that sound like any one you know? I also shared Wiggle Fidgets with my teacher candidates, and they were enthralled. They assured me that they would be reading these stories and building libraries full of Barbara's books.
Ms. Esham stories are based on real life educational issues that children face. Two other stories- If You're So Smart, How Come You Can't Spell Mississippi, and Last to Finish, tackle the issues of spelling and math problems that students may encounter. These serious topics are handled with humor and wit. Other books address cursive writing and science class. If your child struggles in any of the previous areas, I suggest Barbara's books. The books are like cognitive warm and fuzzy blankets. You and your child will feel better about the topic after reading. There are also educational resources in each of the books. My favorite contemporary children's author is Barbara Esham. 

Illustration from the Wiggle Fidgets

In honor of

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