Parallel Views

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I am near the end of a too- short winter break.  I'm grateful to have had the chance to ease back into teaching, but -- like so many educators right now -- I'm utterly exhausted. As I transition back into teaching and learning in the new year I find myself looking at things completely differently.

I've had a few professional instances recently that have really challenged my views.  Right before my return to the classroom I helped host a statewide conference for gifted teachers, and the presentation from keynote speaker (whom I've seen many times before) landed totally differently.  In the past I listened to him as a teacher, but this time I found myself listening as a mother.

I was also asked to speak to a group of graduate students about trends in gifted education, and diversity/culturally responsive teaching was one of the topics.  On one hand, it's incredibly relevant.  On the other hand, I'm realizing that my privilege as a white teacher will become Little Man's privilege.  I understand the education system.  I know what to look for, I know the right words to say, I know the people to contact.  That's great news for him, right?  Well, yes it is...but what does it really solve?  His advantage is by chance and doesn't translate to any other Black guides in his world.  

How do I take what I'm learning and impact a system that will benefit all students?  How do I practice what I preach when it comes to being culturally responsive?  How do I empower other parents and educators to help support their students as well?

These are big questions that don't have easy answers. Some would say they don't have answers at all, but I hope that's not true. I suppose the first step is to start calling out and calling in when I can -- not to judge, but to perhaps open dialogue and inspire new perspectives.  In some ways I've had to do this all my life as a Jew living in a very non-Jewish place; the holiday season is always a time to remind others that different beliefs and traditions exist...or that some choose not to believe or have traditions at all -- and that it's ok. 

Now, let me be clear: any discrimination, anti-Semitism, or microaggressions I've experienced do not equate to experiencing racism. This is an example of a good intention with a bad impact that I had before Little Man was born; what I thought was empathy was anything but. My point, though, is that I have the instinct to start making change. If I can try to make inroads for myself then I can absolutely do the same for my son. My voice doesn't have to be loud to be heard.

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