Lost At School: Chapter 7

In response to Lilana's questions:

"When staff in a school are not all on the same page in regards to their goals, students success, and achievement, things are dysfunctional. Do you think this is important? Why or why not?" 

 I think this is very important. As we see in the book many of the staff was not on the same page and it had an poor affect on the classroom & school community. It seemed like once they began to plan together and figure out different approach & strategies it became more successful. 

Chapter 7:

What I took from this chapter is the idea of Plan B for every kid;  Plan B Between Two kids; Plan B in Groups.  I also like the focus on community building.  What really stood out to me was:  "If plan B is applied to every kid then it won't be viewed negatively" (188.) This chapters main idea was built around community focus and how the kids with behavioral challenges often find themselves outside looking in. (Pg.186-187.) I also like the group problem solving. It moves focus from general education to Special Education. The author writes about the reward-and punishment programs being unnecessary. Some good quotes from the chapter: 

"Good teaching means being responsive to the hand you've been dealt"

"Fair does not mean equal." 

"In our classroom everyone gets what they need, " and In our classroom, we help eachother."

I was very annoyed by Mr. Armstrong however I tried to reason with his point of view as well. What upset me is the fact that he has completely given up on Crystal. In terms of Joey,  I am glad to see things shifting from a blame game to actually putting a plan into process. Mrs. Woods and Mrs. Lowell can now offer Joey some of the support he will need to continue on the journey of a fruitful education. As for Travis, he is creating an environment that is dangerous for other's, and Mrs. Franco is a bit overwhelmed. She notices her flaws by always implementing Plan A. With students like Consuelo who are very shy, it seems like the staff is finding ways to allow all of the students voices and concerns be heard. 

Questions: 

 What was your thoughts about Mr. Armstrong giving Crystal 4 detention slips? 

 Do you think he could find another way to help Crystal refocus on staying in school?