It's only fitting that the name of this blog, and my new journey, be defined as "TRILL". After all, I am the daughter of a Port Arthur, Texas Yellow Jacket graduate, a life-long resident of Texas, an avid follower of the Houston rap scene, and a teacher aspiring to educate children while maintaining a semblance of her authentic self.
After a successful run teaching in the suburbs and my TRILL characteristics being unethically scrutinized, I decided it was time for me to seek out a situation where my passion would be supported, and I would not only be able to be my TRILL self, but it would be appreciated. As an educator, my heart's desire has only been, to do what "they" say can't be done with the kids "they" say can't or won't do it. I knew there had to be a school setting out there that wasn't "intimidated by my passion" or "misunderstood" it.
What happened next was nothing short of divine intervention. I was put in contact with Mrs. Alicia Lewis, Principal of Blackshear Elementary in Houston's Historic Third Ward. Several hours of conversation later, sprinkled with goosebumps listening to her communicate her vision, and visiting the campus on the corner of Ennis and Holman, I knew this was my new home.
Pulling in the gates, walking across the courtyard, and interacting with the eager to learn faces and welcoming staff, I had never felt more at peace. It wasn't your typical interview, I taught a lesson to summer school kids, we had a conversation and talked for hours. We were real with each other about the struggles and hardships that came with teaching in the inner city. We were truthful with each other when discussing our intentions, expectations, and visions. Mrs. Lewis knew my heart was in the right place, and I wasn't some white savior from the suburbs (something important to me for her to understand). I knew Mrs. Lewis would be supportive of me, my teaching practices, and I wouldn't have to worry about toning my passion down. In fact, Mrs. Lewis was celebrating these strong traits as those of a leader with a command of the classroom.
Mrs. Lewis asked me about any reservations I may have. I told her my only worry was if I had enough experience and if the timing was right.
"After watching you teach, I know you know the curriculum and have enough experience. If there is a time, Renee, it is now. You told me you want the chance to be part of something they say can't be done, well the time is now. Third Ward, as we know it, won't be here in 3-5 years because of gentrification."
She didn't have to say anything else. I knew what she meant. This was the time to move the school in a positive direction, now, before others could attribute the school's rising rating on gentrification and the moving in of middle-class white folks. This was exactly what I longed to be part of - something bigger than showing up from 8-4.
Pulling in the gates, walking across the courtyard, and interacting with the eager to learn faces and welcoming staff, I had never felt more at peace. It wasn't your typical interview, I taught a lesson to summer school kids, we had a conversation and talked for hours. We were real with each other about the struggles and hardships that came with teaching in the inner city. We were truthful with each other when discussing our intentions, expectations, and visions. Mrs. Lewis knew my heart was in the right place, and I wasn't some white savior from the suburbs (something important to me for her to understand). I knew Mrs. Lewis would be supportive of me, my teaching practices, and I wouldn't have to worry about toning my passion down. In fact, Mrs. Lewis was celebrating these strong traits as those of a leader with a command of the classroom.
For Such A Time As This
Mrs. Lewis asked me about any reservations I may have. I told her my only worry was if I had enough experience and if the timing was right.
"After watching you teach, I know you know the curriculum and have enough experience. If there is a time, Renee, it is now. You told me you want the chance to be part of something they say can't be done, well the time is now. Third Ward, as we know it, won't be here in 3-5 years because of gentrification."
She didn't have to say anything else. I knew what she meant. This was the time to move the school in a positive direction, now, before others could attribute the school's rising rating on gentrification and the moving in of middle-class white folks. This was exactly what I longed to be part of - something bigger than showing up from 8-4.
I am now an employee of Houston ISD, and in August of 2016, I will be responsible for teaching 64 4th Graders at Blackshear Elementary School. The staff, along with the support of the community, are on a mission to restore Blackshear Elementary to the #prideof3rdward.
This blog will be a raw, authentic and reflective account of my experiences educating the children of Houston's inner city. I will chronicle the celebrations and disappointments while maintaining the confidentiality of my scholars and colleagues.
I invite you to come along this TRILL adventure with me.
-Renee Glasscock
This blog will be a raw, authentic and reflective account of my experiences educating the children of Houston's inner city. I will chronicle the celebrations and disappointments while maintaining the confidentiality of my scholars and colleagues.
I invite you to come along this TRILL adventure with me.
-Renee Glasscock
TRILL Shout-Outs:
Katie Allen...this woman here, y'all. She taught me how to run a small group, how to fall in love with ESL strategies, how to dissect the 4th-grade writing curriculum, how to interact with others, how to be confident with and embrace my truths...she was and is the teacher we all needed as a student.
Miss Kelley Carr...for gently nudging me into the world of blogging and being the Curator of Awesomeness in me and others.
My Tribe Members - JH, CD, LV, KC...Y'all just get IT - there's nothing more to say.
Lauren Burris...my best friend and biggest supporter. Bless you, because you listened to it all, and you're not even an educator.
My TWITTER PLN...you folks are a constant source of support, validation, and you keep me in check!
Mr. Brent Clarkson...because just...awesomesauce...every discouraged teacher needs a humble ROCKSTAR to keep them encouraged. Thank you for that. One day I hope to pay it forward!
Mr. Minor...thank you for validating my "TRILLNESS" and thank you for that phone call, huge game changer for me. #solidarity.
The Parents and Students of my 2015/2016 4th Grade Class-The Lil Gs...this class was the most beautifully crafted grouping of personalities, abilities, and souls. There will never be another class of more genuine students or parents. You guys validated my teaching and practices, daily. Your feedback is what kept me encouraged through the storm, you didn't even know was raging. Thank you for your unending support and the privilege of being your child's other parent.
...and finally...
The Haters...I used to think that haters didn't exist, they were some made up anomaly of vain people, but in the past few years, I have realized, devastatingly, that "haters" are very real and exist in what should be the most innocent setting - the school. These are the people that smile to your face and pump you up all while stirring the pot and conjuring up false problems in order to find their voice in a time of desperation. I got nothin but love for ya...be patient, I have so much more - "too much" - to show you!
