Alex B - Letters to a Young Teacher

Summary

I chose this book for the Toolkit because I'm not young and I was curious as to the content.  I had an idea that age was not a factor in the premise of this book and I was right.  The book is a sort of diary of letters written by an experienced teacher to a new teacher and offers advice and anecdotes from teaching in an inner city public school. 

The text discusses the importance of relationships - with students, with parents and with colleagues.  It talks about establishing trust with the students so they'll want to learn from you and will participate in their own learning.  It talks about making parents feel part of their children's education and depending on the socio-economic status to make parents who might be uncomfortable in a school setting, welcome in the class and know they are valued as part of their children's experience.  The author stresses the importance of learning from other teachers.  Most young teachers are full of zest and zeal and shouldn't discredit the experience of seasoned teachers.  The author goes into detail about the importance of the teacher accepting the student's and their input and to not just teach to get a pre-determined result.  The author encourages teachers to make things fun and interesting for the kids and discourages turning the classroom into a FACTory of knowledge and a place where high scores determine success.  The author believes teaching should be creative and enjoyable and when a teacher is enthusiastic and caring, and attentive to the students, it's sure to be successful. 

The author suggests the best strategy for the child's learning is to develop a good relationship with the parents.  And if the parents won't come to the mountain, the mountain should go to the parents.  The author thinks that creating a trusting, nurturing environment allows for a more positive learning experience and having the parents included can only help.

The author also suggests having meaningful conversations with colleagues and sharing of ideas and stresses the importance of lifelong learning for everyone - teachers included.

Critique

Jonathan Kozol's philosophy is one of respect.  Respect for each student and respect for the teaching profession.  His opinion is one that inspires educators and highlights the special qualities that each child possesses.  The book was easy to read and it felt "conversational" so I was interested in continuing the conversation.  The book itself pertains more information and descriptions of the American school system but the premise of the book - of how to have a joy filled career in teaching - is universal.  The book also focuses more on an inner city experience than any other, but I feel the information is very valuable.  The ideas presented in the text fit well with what was covered in class, how diversity shouldn't dictate lower learning opportunities or expectations and that all children are unique individuals and should be treated with the same value as one treats themselves.  Things talked about in class and things learned in class also match the beliefs of the text - being creative (some of those group presentations were amazing and so impressive!), and sharing ideas (reflective response anyone?) and using humour to keep learning fun and engaging (I looked forward to each and every class).  I'm glad I chose and read this book and I look forward to perusing the Teacher Toolkit for more resources.