03-29-2010, 02:46 PM
As a teacher who received a RIF notice I was deeply moved by the passion, curiosity, and determination of my students during the code 'white' which was being treated like a code red. There was a lot happening during that period at WHS and it was an educational moment for the students to understand the complicated world of negotiations, bullying, intimidation, impending lay-offs, fear of losing relationships forged with teachers, as well as the ability to protest peacefully. I did not witness any fights just students marching and demonstrating their alliance with their teachers. It was really a wonderful thing for our kids to be involved in. It is very sad as we moved toward Small Learning communities and advisories in order to forge important personal relationships with the students to see the very same administration who integrated these methods knock it down and validate the mistrust the kids already have in the adults around them. I hope this can come to a peaceful outcome and the very good teachers at WHS can continue on their 'mission' work in this deserving community.