Web Exclusive: Alternative Spring Break — North Carolina
March 18, 2010 • By Jessica Herr,
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This spring break I co-lead a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina to volunteer with Teach for America. Before leaving I had no idea what to expect emotionally. We volunteered in various schools throughout the week – schools that predominantly teach students living in poverty. The most meaningful school I volunteered in was Albemarle Road Elementary School where 98% of the students attending this school were living in poverty.
I spent three days in the same 4th grade classroom helping the teacher with whatever she needed, whether it be cutting and pasting activities, tutoring students one-on-one, or working with students in groups. While working with some of these students I realized how behind they were. For instance, they struggled with decimals, multiplication facts, and reading. I wanted to help these kids in any way possible and give them the attention they needed.
There were many students who lacked the motivation needed to succeed. The second day we were at the school, the teacher was presenting their practice EOG (end of grade) scores for reading. As a class, they were at a 57% level and needed to reach at least 70% to pass the 4th grade. Most students were reading at a 1st grade level and only one student actually passed. When the teacher spoke to the students about their scores and how disappointed she was with the lack of effort I almost started to cry.
For any of you who have seen “Freedom Writers” and understand how powerful of a movie it is, volunteering with Teach for America for the week was just as powerful. After having this amazing experience I want to do anything I can for these children. These children are great and it breaks my heart to see them suffer so much.
Contact Jessica Herr at herrjs@jmu.edu
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Best of the 'Burg Supplement
April 29, 2010 Issue in Print
I am so proud of you, babydoll!