Wednesday, August 22, 2007

Kevin's "1st Day of School"

Well, Kevin delivered his first lesson plan today...to mixed reviews. He knew this crowd would be tough, but geeeeeez!! He had 4 classes and by the end of the 2nd one, it felt as if he'd already worked 8 hours. The hardest class was the 1st one. There were only 4 kids in it, but there's a macho-defiant dude in the class that gave Kevin some grief. He basically told Mr. Bailey that he didn't have to follow the rules, then walked toward him in a challenging manner. The para-professional stepped in and talked him out of doing anything more stupid, and the tension eased a little. The next class was full of disruptive kids who were all over the place and ended the activity early. Kevin is realizing that he'll have to have back-up activities/discussions or something to fill the time for the go-getters. But there were a handful that were very interested in his presentation, and the drawing activity he had them do.

The cool thing is, this is the trial run, and he did a great job of handling these "troubled youth." (Sounds like the teachers are the troubled ones, if you ask me.) And once he gets to know the system, the personalities of the kids and makes his mark, I know he'll make a real difference in at least a few of their lives.
Go Mr. Bailey!!

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

From talking to Kevin today I think his job is a combination of Becky's job (crazy adults) and Ashley's new job (2 year-olds). You guys should share strategies! I can't wait to work on the next project with you Kevin! Love ya, Joani

Anonymous said...

Kevin, this makes Camden's problems seem less surmountable! Good luck with these guys, and we'll be praying for their heart attitudes. Love you, Mom K.

Anonymous said...

Congrats!!!! Bailey, please ask Kevin if some of the kids would be willing to draw something "cool" to help will the "tan" walls in our office!? And, God picked "Special Parents" for a super kid! Bailey....rethink about going back to school for teaching, I see that gift in you! Much happiness, Betty Melzner

Anonymous said...

Hang in there bro! It is a tough job, but so worth it when it starts connecting. Thanks for the birthday wishes!
-Ashley