Grief and a good week...

One thing about being self employed is that you are isolated from other people's stories. This can be both good and bad. On the one hand, you are saved from dealing with alot of tragedy, and on the other hand, you are isolated from the human condition in all it's ugliness and splendor.

Two girls died this week that went to Riverside high. Both from car accidents, both fifteen years old. Tragic. I ran sound for the memorial and candle light vigil on Tuesday. Neither of the girls was my student, but it was incredibly difficult to watch 500 people grieve together nonetheless. So, the mood at school has been subdued this week. Some kids have needed counseling. Not fun.

So, it is especially strange that I am having one of my best weeks at school yet. I feel like I am making a difference and my kids are doing really well. In the coming weeks, I'll give you some profiles of my students and let you share in their progress but, for now, I'm off to school.

Sheesh, the guilt...

O.k., my oldest and dearest friends are now guilting me in to posting on my own blog. To you I say: Thank you. Oh, and: fuck off. Just kidding.

For those of you who have not been closely following my saga over the past two months, and if you're reading this you probably haven't, I have become a high school teacher. What? Yes, it's true. I am the technical theatre teacher at Riverside High School in Durham. Most days it's a great job. Some days I want to beat myself senseless with a ballpeen hammer. I get paid less than a gas station attendant and I work 16 hour days. I do love my kids though and I feel like I am finally part of the solution and not merely looking at the train wreck that is the American public education system. It's gratifying to see a kid get inspired about your lessons. It is less gratifying to see a kid throw a hammer out of frustration. A NEW hammer to boot. So, you see, it is a double edged sword. There is no doubt that I am in the trenches and it can be an ugly place, but I've promised myself at least two years in the profession and I intend to stick to my guns. Unless, of course, someone threatens me with a gun. In that case I will be selling real estate in a heartbeat.

More later. I promise.