I started working for Chicago Public Schools in May of 1990. I started out as a teacher assistant. When I started this job i realized right away that our children need help. I asked the Principal to assign me to the children who needed me the most. She assigned me to the special education classroom. The group that i had range from 1st to third grades. They had learning deficits, emotional problems and behavior issues.
I worked with these children for four years. I helped them as best I could with what I had. I got with the teacher and together we did the impossible job of trying to teach these children what the needed to move up and move on in school and in life. The Principal was impressed with my work and decided that she wanted me to work with the older special education students. She assigned me to the 6th 7th and 8th grade special education students. These students had a lot of issues but with some determination and team work we helped as many as we could.
During this time I was also coaching flag football. When I started coaching flag football I noticed that the students did not have a clue as to how to play this game. I taught them the basics of the game and showed them that they can play this game and win. For years before I took over our team never won a game. I showed them that with practice, dedication, and discipline they could achieve success in the game and in life. Most of the players were special education students. That year our team went on to beat every team in our section. We also won two playoff games before losing in the championship game.
I was also the chess team coach, science fair coach, and drama coach. I love working with children and helping them the best way I can. I tutored reading and math and the students love it. They learned quickly when they saw that I really cared about them and their future. In 2006, the Chicago Public Schools close our school stating that our test scores were too low. I moved on to A high school located inside the Cook county jail. After 4 years I was laid off. Six months later I got another school position doing what I do best helping troubled children. The Principal loved what I was doing working with the students teaching them life skills and helping them with their learning.
In July 2011, after receiving the highest rating I have ever earned I also received a layoff notice. The layoff was not legal but the Chicago Public Schools do not care about rules when it comes to getting rid of staff to meet budget concerns. To them I was just another number. The students were devastated. I am fighting the layoff through the union but the process is long. In the meantime I must struggle to pay my mortgage, bills, and buy groceries with whatever I can make. I have my own work at home business which helps me pay some bills.
I really miss working with my students and doing the job I love. It is a shame that we live in a time where we have to deal with Layoffs instead of helping our children to become all they can be.