Our "Field Trip"

Our trip to Lehman Alternative School in Ithaca was very eye opening. Definitely something I have never seen before in many aspects. When Kristin and I first drove up I could not believe how small it is, but it is good to hear that everyone in the school likes intimate setting of the school, where it seems as if everyone knows everyone. Another aspect is how much of a say the kids have with the school. I feel like that can be very beneficial in a way that the school can adapt to the kids needs. Since they have a direct voice, they can hopefully see direct results. Also, it is great how teachers can adapt how they teach to meet the needs of the children. I would have never thought of using a clip of a movie to be able to school kids what characterization, plot, setting etc. are if they can not fully grasp the idea of me telling them what it is.

I feel as if alternative schools are underestimated. They have such high expectations for their students and the students live up to the expectations. Their are no number grades, it is just pretty much pass or fail due to homework and participation and their portfolios they do. I feel that takes off so much pressure off of students to have the straight A's. I don't know, I wish I could have experienced a school like that as a student and maybe some day I will experience it as a teacher.

After going to the school a handful of us went to dinner at Lost Dog Cafe in Ithaca. I know all about this place because we have one back at home and I work there every once in a while. It was nice to sit back and relax and not talk about school stuff with my peers (our conversation circled around how Theresa rear-ended me...love you Tee!!). Over all it was a great day and a great experience.