“Only You Can Get Yourself Out Of Here” — 5 Days Spent in Summer School
“Only you can get yourself out of here,” I overheard sitting in the back of an air conditioned, thankfully 🙏, classroom at Summer School.
Only I am 31 years old and most definitely not a high schooler like most of the students who chose to show up for their mandatory school during the summer. I’m here for my 25-hours of field work assigned for my education Master’s program. Attendance can be spotty at Summer School.
I never was required to attend Summer School in my own youth, so was not sure what to expect and how I, a Master’s student studying to become a Computer Science educator, would be able to assist in High School make-up/earn back credits situation; particularly in the subject of English. Albeit I did myself chose to do my fieldwork in the subject of English over a Maths or Science course…
So I found myself partly observing, partly assisting, and to be honest: mostly doodling and writing TO DO lists in my journal.
It seemed at times like I wanted TO DO anything but be there, and I do not think I was at times alone in that sentiment.
But, but there were days like today when I helped a student complete her last assignment (8/8 readings/worksheets) that it felt worth it.
Did she learn about similes? I’m pretty sure; like a person waiting for a train is that their train will be on time without consulting a time display or an app. Regardless, she completed what was required of her from the NYS Education Board and now can focus on doing the same for History and hopefully will be able to enjoy the rest of her summer!
And sometimes I think we all need to remember that we are in control of our own destiny. Show up. Do the work. You get to leave and be done.
“Only you can get yourself out of here”
