University of Illinois' UNITE Chapter Up and Running

Hey Everyone,

The University of Illinois’ UNITE chapter is finally up and running! We are only three weeks in, but we have accomplished so much already!  We have spent our first few weeks getting to know each other and have begun discussing strategies for teaching in urban areas.

Last week we discussed the myth of the Superhero Teacher and the stereotypes the media creates when portraying teachers.  We watched short clips from Dangerous Minds, Stand and Deliver, and Freedom Writers and saw a common theme of the teachers in these movies come sweeping into these underprivileged urban schools and saving the day for all of their students.  Another thing we noticed was how all of these teachers were willing to give up their home lives to cater to the needs of their students. Although these movies are based on true stories, they create unrealistic expectations and views of teachers and their methods.

Follow up questions:

Do you think it is fair that the movies focused upon the teacher’s achievements, rather than just the students?

How can we as educators work to create student centered classrooms where the needs of the students are prioritized, without giving up our own lives?

At our last meeting we read and discussed the New York Times article entitled “Rift in Arizona as Latino Class Is Found Illegal”, which can be found using the following link: http://www.nytimes.com/2011/01/08/us/08ethnic.html?_r=1&pagewanted=all

This article explained how a Mexican American literature class that students had become engaged and passionate about, was declared illegal by the state of Arizona. The state, which includes some Mexican-American studies in its official curriculum, sees the classes as less about educating students than creating future activists. We discussed how culturally relevant material is one of the best ways to help students create personal connections and engage with the material.  Unfortunately as teachers, students watch and follow our every move. We need to be cautious so not to overstep our boundaries and present material or our own attitudes that might persuade our students in a negative manner.

Follow up questions: 

As teachers, students are constantly looking up to us for guidance; in what ways do you think your attitude about certain issues taught in the classroom will impact your students?

If you were the teacher of a social justice class what types of strategies could you use to engage your students with the material, without overstepping your boundaries?

We are excited to attend our first workshop held by UNITE National in Chicago this upcoming Saturday!  This workshop will focus on the programs and resources CPS is currently using in order to help us develop our own classroom management plans.