Throwing this out to the list and maybe get responses to help cure what's
ailing me.
We just had our yearly art show which I believe was done very tastefully and
featured some very strong work from our district. My top students from grades
8 and 9 did not show up to the show despite my usual ritual of packaging up a
very nice custom made certificate and a show flyer in an envelope and hand
delivering these during lunch.
There was a State music contest going on the same day so we feared we may
lose some but the ones I'm talking about were not tied up that day.
This same problem, a lack of attendance from my stronger kids, happened
last year as well. Also, it's not just my kids, but the other teachers' as well.
My question is this: I can't help but be a little peeved about this, but
should I just chalk this up to their age and the times we live in. It seems to
me that kids should treat this as an an honor but I guess some don't see it
that way. Is this common, and if not what can I do about it.
On a similiar note. I can't help but wonder about this music contest. The
day after our show I heard students bantering excitedly about their scores on
the state test/contest. This got me thinking. Why are these kids so excited
about playing their instrument in a room with only a judge and nobody else to
see or hear them perform but they're not excited about having their artwork
displayed where a ton of community residents could see and enjoy it.
I have to admit, I"m secretly a bit jealous of the music teachers.
Any thoughts on any of this ramble? Thanks for listening
Mike Sacco
Paul J. Gelinas JHS
Setauket, NY
www.myschoolonline.com/ny/gelinasartdept
