Perspective

Sue Swaim

Will You Teach Me How?

Years ago, when I was a middle school teacher in Greeley, CO, I came across a small book of poetry written by middle school students. The book was Love Me When I Am Most Unlovable, Book Two: The Kid's View, and one poem in particular resonated with me. I've held it very close to my heart since then and have shared it with many of my colleagues throughout my years in education. If memory serves me correctly, it was written anonymously by a 13-year-old. I invite you to consider its potential impact on the learning priorities and needs of your students much as I did when I first became a teacher:

Will you teach me how to sail, through space upon a comet's tail?
Will you teach me how to fly, to sail the skies on wings untried?
Will you teach me how to soar, to see things never seen before?
But most importantly of all, will you teach me how to fall?
Will you teach me how to cry, to release feelings deep inside?
Will you teach me how to laugh and travel off the beaten path?
Will you teach me how to dream, to face the future sight unseen?
Will you teach me how to be, the only thing I can be … Me?

Over the years, I have wondered who this poem's author grew up to be. I hope he or she became a teacher because the wisdom behind this poet's questions would be such an important foundation of understanding and commitment for a middle level educator. I've come to believe this young adolescent summed up the middle level concept in his or her short poem, for it addresses the dual purposes of middle level education: academic growth and achievement and personal growth and development.

Several years ago I read an Atlanta newspaper article written by John Lounsbury, considered one of the founders of the middle school movement, in which he said, "Education, particularly in a democracy, has to involve heart as well as head, attitude as well as information, spirit as well as scholarship, and conscience as well as competence." I immediately thought of this poem. I think both writers are challenging us as middle level educators to respond to the needs of young adolescent learners so each has the opportunity to become a healthy, productive, and ethical citizen.

If we are to "teach" these things, then successful schools for young adolescents must provide safe and inviting learning environments and the curriculum has to be relevant, challenging, and integrative. As actively engaged learners, students would never worry about asking a "dumb" question because there are no dumb questions when genuine learning occurs. Upon entering such a school, the energy and excitement would be evident and everyone would quickly realize that the focus is on the education and well-being of all the members of this learning community.

If, indeed, we could describe all of our middle level schools in this fashion then the implementation of successful schools for young adolescents would be the norm throughout our nation and around the world. Regrettably, that is not yet true … but it is a goal worthy of our highest efforts, for the young adolescents with whom we work and live every day deserve nothing less.

Throughout my entire career as a teacher, principal, and NMSA executive director, I've always believed one question in particular should be used as my benchmark when making decisions: "If I decide to do this, will it ultimately be what's best for kids?" I've asked that question of myself and colleagues hundreds of times throughout the past 38 years. I have found that in trying to answer it, I triggered a more thoughtful and focused response.

As you continue to make the important decisions regarding your work as a middle level educator and advocate, I invite you to think about that question in concert with the poem written by a 13-year-old student and the education description shared by John Lounsbury. I trust it will be as thought provoking for you as it has been for me.

In my humble opinion, there is no greater calling than to be an effective and enthusiastic middle level educator. Every day, you have the opportunity to touch the future and to influence a child in his or her journey to becoming an independent, lifelong learner. Not only the future of your students, but the future of our world passes through your classroom doors on a daily basis. What an awesome responsibility! We both know the journey is not always an easy one, but I believe that being a middle level educator, is the most important job in the world. And, I hope you do, too.