Problems everywhere....

Saipan Sunset (C) Marie Camacho
http://mariesresourcediary.blogspot.com/

       Living here in the CNMI, offers many interesting and challenging experiences being a teacher. As you can see in the photo to the left, it can be very pretty.  This is also nice, considering Texas and Oklahoma are both suffering in sub zero temperatures.
   Many of the challenges of teaching on the mainland, we also experience here on the island. This may be surprising but many of the challenges on the island, we have in the mainland too.  Think about that for a moment.  Students are going to be the same the world over.  Young people are the same the world over. People in general are the same the world over.
     I am sometimes surprised at how some people here on island are surprised that people on the mainland can share many of the same challenges and successes that people on the island face.  More importantly these challenges and accomplishments may be more similar than many realize.  Many of our students struggle with the same learning difficulties that students in other locations face.  We have students who have learning disabilities students who suffer from different health impairments, families facing personal crises to name a few.  Even still I have many students who are from the lower economic levels of society, and suffer the effects of being poor. You may ask yourself, what can I do? Short answer is a bunch.
      One of the things that we as teachers can do to help our students, not just the ones with problems is to be a resource of information.  This starts with knowing what programs are offered in your area to help. Many people are aware of several of the education laws that teachers have to follow.  One law, that is not as well known by many people is the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. The Wright's Law website has a great primer for this law.  It can be found here. Educating Homeless Children - Wrightslaw Teachers, who are looking for information should see one of the guidance counselors.  Other resources include the schools clothing closet, or pantry.  Some schools have these and others do not.  Some times, clubs such as Kiwanis Key Club or Lions Club International Leo's Club sponsor or maintain these items as part of their civic service projects.
     One other way we as teachers can help our students is by interacting with them in Public.  I cannot tell you how many times, I have seen a student and interacted with them in public, and their whole attitude changed in the classroom.  If you are out an about in the community, acknowledge your students, and their parent.  If nothing more than saying hello.  Students and parents need to know that you are part of their community.
      A final thought about our students and how to help them.  Make a point everyday to talk to your student.  Address them by name, talk to them about something non-academic.  Show an interest in them. Make them part of your classroom community. At the end of every class, thank them for attending and tell them you are looking forward to seeing them the next class.