badlands

It's been a little over a month since day one of teaching.

Saying that it has been a whirlwind would be an incredible understatement. I knew this would be hard but working being placed at a turnaround was like facing a beast. Our school is located in north Philly, in an area often referred to as the badlands. As most can guess, the nickname comes from the fact that this community has experienced generational poverty, violence, gang wars and drug corners since the 80's.

I spoke to a financial guy yesterday (who is assisting with my retirement plan) who serves inner city school teachers probono. This gentleman worked at my school last year before it became a turnaround and he said "If anyone asked me where the worst part of Philadelphia was/is, I'd say (insert my school here)."

When signing on to this teaching commitment, there is not much you can prepare for. Academically, perhaps, if you know your grade and content level placement. Emotionally? Unless you have had life experiences similar to that of our children, no. Personally? you cannot help but be completely and fully invested in your kids.