I am so proud of my students....
During the Zoot Suit unit, one of my students approached me after class and asked if I knew that there were signs for Zoot Suit hanging up in her neighborhood. I did know, because I had just found out that a) the show was running in Los Angeles and b) tickets were almost completely sold out. The students were devastated to find out that they where THAT close to experiencing first-hand this play they had grown to love. What happened next is one of the most powerful experiences I have had in my short time as a teacher. Click on our GoFundMe link to read the whole story!
During the Zoot Suit unit, one of my students approached me after class and asked if I knew that there were signs for Zoot Suit hanging up in her neighborhood. I did know, because I had just found out that a) the show was running in Los Angeles and b) tickets were almost completely sold out. The students were devastated to find out that they where THAT close to experiencing first-hand this play they had grown to love. What happened next is one of the most powerful experiences I have had in my short time as a teacher. Click on our GoFundMe link to read the whole story!
There are not enough kind words to explain how much this trip meant to me and my students! We had an amazing evening: catered private dinner in the library, a fancy coach bus courtesy of the city, a DTLA photo op, and up close seats (some even got front row!) to an amazing production of Zoot Suit! Throughout this journey my students learned so many skills that are not covered by the Common Core Standards. They learned teamwork, negotiation, planning, organization, goal setting, reflection, and the sheer power of determination. They have made me so proud. I cried three times during the play, and only once was due to the play. Although this feels like a once-in-a-lifetime moment, I hope to create a safe, encouraging, and engaging environment for my students every year that allows them to explore ways to apply their learning far beyond the walls of the classroom. Do not be afraid to seek out what you want, Students. Do not let obstacles determine your future. You are strong. You are smart. You are capable. You are worthy. Orale, pues!