In her own words: Teacher moved by students' joy over Obama win
By Felicia Kazer
Boston teacher Felicia Kazer tells how Barack Obama's election transformed McCormack Middle School in Dorchester the day after the historic vote, stirring excitement, a sense of possibility, and unbridled joy in her students.
Wednesday was a great day to be a teacher.
The excitement started as soon as I entered the school in the morning. It turns out that a small group of students arrived before classes started to decorate our hallways with Barack Obama posters.
They had photocopied pictures of Obama's face. Under it they had written one word: "President."
By the time the rest of the student body arrived, our whole school had been plastered with these signs.
At 7:14 a.m., the hallways at my school looked very familiar: crowded, hectic and loud. Only on this morning, students weren't ignoring their teacher's requests to get to their homerooms because they were too busy gossiping about shoes or TV last night or one another.
Instead, they were simply too busy to get to class on time because they were all talking politics with their friends. It was stunning to overhear conversations between eighth-graders that included words like: electoral votes, democracy, and ballots. And it wasn't just a few kids -- it was all of them.
Felix, the tallest and coolest eighth-grade boy in homeroom 8F, came into our room with six Obama buttons on his sweatshirt. And as if this wasn't enough, he set the school trend for wearing the Obama posters that were once hanging all over the hallways. One minute he was asking to borrow some tape and the next minute the Obama printouts were all over his (and then all the other boys') torsos.
Meanwhile, I looked around my homeroom and had a shocking realization: This is a room filled with 13-year-olds, and all of them are in a good mood. But knowing how much their moods fluctuate during the course of a day, I was sure that by last class block the excitement would have subsided.
I was wrong.
I picked up 8C from lunch and on the way back to class I had to remind Lexxi that it wasn't appropriate hallway behavior to chant, "Obama, Obama, Obama" as loudly as she could.
By now, I had realized that my lesson on chemical formulas would be a hard-sell for such an over-stimulated and over-tired afternoon crew, so I decided to make them a deal.
"If we get all our work done this afternoon, we will spend the last 20 minutes of the day watching Obama's victory speech,'' I told them. "However, if we don't work efficiently, we won't have enough time."
When else would this be a successful incentive for adolescent children: If
you work hard, I'll let you listen silently to a grown-up give a long speech about our political process.
I couldn't believe it worked, but it did. The class only got off track a couple of times and I was easily able to refocus them by providing one simple reminder: "President Obama would want us to get our work done."
As promised, at the end of the period we closed our chemistry books and tuned in to hear our next president give his victory speech. The first bell even rang and no one packed up their things.
Not only did they listen to Obama's speech intently, but a few times they began
cheering so loudly I had to pause the speech and remind them that a class was taking place next door.
You remember this part of Obama's speech Tuesday night: "This victory is not my victory. This is your victory.''
To this, Vianca (one of my most chatty girls) said out loud: "Yeah, it's my victory!"
I looked around at the room of 28 students -- all of whom are people of color -- and I saw the future teachers, doctors, artists and presidents of this country. I almost started crying all over again.
It was a good day to be a teacher! Although we were all tired from watching the returns the night before!
It was a great day to be a teacher? Why? Because your students are showing involvement in civic activities or because they're cheeleading the election of the candidate you wanted?
Would you be so glad if John McCain had won and they were doing the same thing? I suspect not.
I normally don't complain about touching, inspiration stories; but a teacher, of all people should have caught the mistake of using the word "coarse" instead of "course". See: "But knowing how much their moods fluctuate during the coarse of a day..."
If it was not the teacher's error, the editor should have caught it.
Finally, a teacher of all people should not refer to students of African descent as people of "color".
Ms. Kazer, Thanks for sharing the McCormack's energy with the world! As tears flow around the globe, we are rejuvenated with the hope that our President-Elect is inspiring. Love the youths everyone, they realize the significance of Obama's positive, caring, intelligent and energizing humanity. -Mr. Melzer
An article for you teacher. A beautiful article.
An article for you teacher. A beautiful article.
This is a great story!
Fantastic!!!!!
It's nice to see young kids get into politics and understand how the election works, but these kids are just going with the crowd when celebrating Obamas victory...Obama is a young crowd pleaser...HES A CELEBRITY. What difference does he have from any other candidate that has won, that hes black??? Thats about it. Come on guys, if we complain so much about racism, why is it so important to note that a black person won something, in the end aren't we all just people, color doesnt change anything, or does it?.CHANGE?? hahahalet hope it id going to be good, doesn't look so..Hitler said he would bring change also.
Wonderful article!!!
what a great story..I hope the same happened at schools across the nation
I saw the same thing when voting at Fenway High School on Tuesday. They were chanting "Obama" in the halls, hoping to influence just one of us in line old enough to vote. It's amazing what this has inspired-- not just for Black children in America, but all children, around the world....
he won because of this huge reversediscriminition tendincy in this country, it makes me sick. Lets see, a veteran who was tortured for this countrys freedom, OR A MAN WHO HATES INDIVIDUALITY!
This is a great story - too bad this teacher had to ruin it by writing the word "your's" when quoting Obama's speech. I hope she's not an English teacher.
This brought tears to my eyes. A job well done!
TO "Smarterthanateacherandeditor"
While your comment about "coarse" is true, a "person of color" is the appropriate term for a non-Caucasian student.
Thank you so much for this article. It is beautifully written and just encompasses perfectly what this election means to the youth of our country.
Obama's great victory is that he gives hope.
Wow! It truly is an exciting time. My daughter's (who is in third grade) was just as excited as the kids in your class. Amazing!
Sure, she should see how kids in Russia worshiped Stalin and Hitler in Germany: if you brainwash kids....
That is one terrific, heartwarming story. Thanks so much for sharing. I have 8 year old twins who are just so excited about all of this. My son and I saw a clip of Oprah this morning, talking about her excitement over the results, and after it was over, he said "Someday I'm going to tell my grandchilden about Obama winning." He then went on to say that he was sure he'd also be able to tell them about the first time a WOMAN is elected president. We can only hope. Good luck President Obama. You're in for a tough haul, but we have faith that you're the right man for the job.
As much as I like Obama, I missed a deeper meaing of this election- until I saw the reaction of everyone else. To see all those college students on TV, right after the results were official, streaming out of their dorms and congregating with sheer joy in Copley Square- wow. Powerful stuff. Unexpected, and very real. You can't fake that.
To hear of these middle school students is just wonderful. I'm so proud of these kids- how could you not be?
This is the best thing that's happened to America in a long, long time.
It motivated and inspired my students of all races. That's why, Dave. Do you deny Obama's humble background? My students weren't born with silver spoons in their mouths.
Also, as far as I know, it is okay to say that I am a person of color. It is not okay to say colored person, smarterthanateacherandeditor. But, please, correct me if I am wrong.
Almost the exact same thing happened at our high school in Brooklyn. Some of the kids cut his face out of the morning paper and wore it over their own faces. Spontaneous chanting broke out in almost every classroom. When I told them they would probably be able to vote for him in four years the excitement poured out of them.
thank you for this article!
To posters 2, 3,13, and 14,
Get over yourselves. Your guy LOST!!!!! Deal with it! All 4 of you are probably brainless baboons regurgitating the same ideas you heard on some wanna be conservative talk radio station.
Idiots!!!!!
Obama hates individuality? Let's see, a veteran who was involved with the Keating 5. A veteran who supported a unilateral war. A veteran who made a very poor choice for vice president. I'm proud of veterans. I'm proud of McCain serving his country. Obama didn't win due to "reverse discrimination". He won because the citizenry looked at the disaster of the last eight years, and said, "enough". I'm sorry you're "pissed off". We need to get this country back on track. And we need your help and energy.
Well I just threw up after reading this story.....gonna be alot of disappointed children in Dorcester when they realize Obama is just like every other politician.
Dave – I am sure that it would not have been the same reaction if McCain were elected and it has nothing to do with which candidate the teacher supported. The mere fact that Obama was elected and is a multi-racial person gives hope to many that never thought they mattered in this world.
Smarterthanateacher – I doubt it! Do you have anything better to do than criticize the grammar of this article? Do you know what other “colors” are in the classroom? Maybe this classroom consists of children other than black or white (oh, is that reference ok for you?). So you fault the teacher for something so petty.
Everyone should be happy that the kids are excited whether you voted for Obama or McCain. Electing Obama as President is indeed a history making event. It would have been the same if Sarah Palin made it to the Vice Presidency – wow a woman serving in that role!
I look at electing Obama President as a great day for our nation as a whole, regardless of our skin color or backgrounds. Let’s face it, race is a factor whether all of us want to admit it or not. What makes me happy is the fact that some people of “color” (oops SmartyPants that thinks you are SmaterThanaTeacher), now have an amazing role model, someone that will lift their spirits and help them realize that just because they are not “white” doesn’t mean they cannot succeed in their lives.
Ver
#3 Since we are nit picking, children of color refers to black , chinese, hispanic , indian etc.. Also because I am a black person does not mean
I am of African decent
Wow, what a moving article - thank you.
Dave - if McCain had won, this would not have occured in this school, so there would be nothing to write about on the topic.
To smart editor - the subject of race and articulation is so touchy these days - however, my understanding is that "people of color" has been in vogue for the last few years to describe the people in our country who are not described as "white."
My eight year old son has already written a letter to Obama, telling the president-elect of his concern for his cousin in Iraq. I found that inspiring as well. He was never moved to write a letter to the president before.
Hello! "People of color" include more than just African Americans. Clearly the choice of words indicated that African-American children are not the only "people of color" in the class. Also, the "people of color" would not have been as elated by a McCain win. They were excited because finally in their lifetime thay realize that they, too, could be the next President of color! May this be a lesson in perservence, political activism, and hope for generations of people who very rarely get to see a reflection of themselves in the faces of public mentors and leaders.
Why stoke promise in these kids? It's basically a lie -- one black president won't stop them from being next year's killers, dealers, rapists, rappers, and unemployed. As soon as the novelty wears off, all these kids will just be saying "Obama who?? He just like whitey". Truth is, when a person of color meets this kind of success, they cease being part of black culture. It's the sad truth -- hopefully Obama will be good for the country, but don't expect some transformation among African-Americans.
To The Realist - he is NOT like every other politician. He is an African who has achieved the highest office in this country.
Their parents must have told them all about the handouts they can expect from President Obama
Black people were basically the only group of people who came to this country not of their own free will. On top of that, they were treated poorly for many years. But throughout it all, they maintained a relatively good attitude under the circumstances, and have made many positive contributions to society. Of course, they have more than their fair share of involvement in drugs and violent crime. But hopefully, with the election of Obama, black people will see and feel that the USA is just as much their country as it is anyone else's, and hopefully they will hold themselves in high esteem, try to reduce the drug abuse and the violence, and that they will finally realize that although they should not expect more from this great cou try, they should not accept anything less.
I think this is absolutely wonderful for race relations in this country...People all over the country can truly believe that there are no limits to what you can accomplish in this great country if you work hard at it...I'm old enough to remember the last time a relatively unknown came out of nowhere and ran on the idea of change, it was Jimmy Carter in 1976...If Obama can push his agenda toward the center he has a great chance of being a successful president, but if he follows his track record of governing from the far-left then his presidency will be a disaster, a lot like Carter's was..
In response to df who posted; Come on guys, if we complain so much about racism, why is it so important to note that a black person won something. Well, what you and alot of people dont get is that by the time these kids are in the 8th grade their already starting to feel negative effects what they see. And what they see is a lack of black people in good positions in the world. Doctors, lawyers, politicians, business world, or just positions of authority in general. Even the simple good positions are held by whites, professional sports coaches, local politicians, store managers, etc. The point is they see jobs for blacks and jobs for whites and that has an effect on them. This changes that.
"Reverse discrimination" is one of those urban legends that the right wing uses to bolster its ridiculous positions. Research shows over and over that it simply doesn't exist; that discrimination against non-whites, women, gays, etc. still is very much in operation (I guess "forward" discrimination is okay). The idea that Obama hates individuality is laughable - his heritage and upbringing are the epitome of individuality. He, as an individual, could only exist in these United States. The fact that although he does not hail from the central African American experience in this country but embraces it, is testimony to that. Belonging to a community does not lessen one's individuality.
When an incredibly intelligent and educated black man who ran a flawless campaign beats a mediocre white guy connected to a failed presidency who made several serious errors in his campaign (especially the Palin selection), it can hardly be called reverse discrimination. It was that the best candidate won. The fact that that person was a black man is icing on the cake, but it ain't the cake!
What these kids were cheering was not just a black president (after all black voters rejected black candidates like Alan Keyes or Mildred Jefferson), it was the election of *this* black man, this man who represents a politics of inclusion, a man who very elegantly stood firm against a racist, xenophobic and religiously bigoted campaign from the right. If that pisses you off, you need to take a hard look at yourself and set yourself in a new direction - the door is always open to you.
all the college kids crowding into Copley Square were celebrating question 2, not obo
This whole article remaind me the situation in Soviet Russia in 1924 when Joseph Stalin become a ruler of USSR.
All communist newspapers was flooded with similar articles , written by similar teaches as Ms. Kazer, from all schools around the country, showing the great joy of all students...
Seems the there is no difference between Boston Globe and russian newspaper 'Pravda'.
I am sure the teacher would have been equally proud when the students rioted if McCain won. Or if they said the country was racist if McCain won.
I myself am glad to see Obama win. But we are quickly turning into a country where our schools are becoming closed to those who dissent from the party line. That being the democratic party line.
We are on a slippery slope and all people views should be respected.
Even Whiteys
Googleman - Stalin and Hitler were dicktators. They forced people's worship. They were cults of personality.
Obama is just a man. Not a dictator, not a brainwasher.
Those kids were excited that the white elitists did not usurp yet another election and now have true reason to believe anyone who is up to the tak may now become president.
Googleman - Stalin and Hitler were dicktators. They forced people's worship. They were cults of personality.
Obama is just a man. Not a dictator, not a brainwasher.
Those kids were excited that the white elitists did not usurp yet another election and now have true reason to believe anyone who is up to the tak may now become president.
What has happened? 8 year old twins excited over a presidential election? Please! I am surrounded by idiots who are acting like they just found a cure for a devastating disease. When the handouts don't really happen and people are still expected to pay their own bills, how will you explain to your 8 year old twins and the 8th grade at the Mather school that Mommy can't buy that gallon of milk because President Obama is taking all Mommie's money in taxes. An 8th grade teacher who can't spell is the least of our problems in the next four years. 1/20/2013
I'm just disappointed we didn't elect a Vice-President who could have served as a far better role model four our children: one who could have shown, by example, that a basic familiarity with American history, civics, or geography is not required in order to earn the pitchforked, torch-bearing, and undying adulation of millions.
I would be more happy if there weren't any number of killings on any given night in Boston's "nay-ba-hoods" as Mumbles likes to say..... Sadly, this "excitement" just shows how much black people dislike white people. White people have nothing on them when it comes to racism.
Tom R.
Thanks for proving there is much work to be done. This was a historical race. I understand the impact on people of colr but I still hope for the day it doesn't matter. President Obama's election at least makes one think the majority of our country will get there. The best thing about this election is HOPE overcame an election based on fear. Let's keep it going.
All this election has done is introduce these kids to affirmative action. All the kids of color have learned is that they will always get the job over the more qualified white guy because of the color of their skin. Great example
Vera - where do I start?
The teachers words, "all of whom are people of color ", in my opinion clearly indicated she was referring to her students as black children. I don't care what reference people use, personally; I just expected more from an educator.
I am happy that the children are excited about the political process.
The only reason I referenced skin color is due to the teacher's wording for her students. Otherwise it wouldn't have even come up. I never, ever alluded to the children not being able to succeed if they are not white.
Please, chill out.
Chuckdog, don't tell me to get over myself. You're not smart enough and most definitely not important enough. I see you didn't/couldn't address my point, which you probably couldn't decipher while tossing off your insults. Oh and by the way, yes my guy lost but isn't the guy think it was (Bob Barr). How's that Air America thing working out for you?
So Tom R@2:10pm,
"killers, dealers, rapists, rappers, and unemployed" are black culture? and "whitey" has no "killers, dealers, rapists, rappers, and unemployed"? perhaps we should add "ignorant", then that would cover you Tom R.
We add hope and promise in kids, ALL KIDS, to appeal to their natural drive to achieve. When they see intelligent and powerful people as someone like them, they see the possibility to think bigger (unlike you Tom R).
Great article. I am shocked however by some of the responses from people who don't like Obama. Reverse racism?? Doesn't value individuality??? Obama IS a celebrity. Like most celebrities (sports, acting, etc...) his popularity flows from what he is capable fo doing ... inspiring us, motivating us, breaking down glass ceilings, etc... He is popular for additional reasons with people of color ... because he offers hope that America has turned the corner and will no longer limt people by the color of their skin and will be more focussed on their ideas and the "contnet of their character." To watch a generation of kids turn on and tune into this electiona nd politics in general must be a very powerful and inspiring thing. We should rally aroudn our new President and hope he and this ntion is successful and help in anyway we can.
THANK YOU TEACHER! Children throughout the US, all races, cultures and ethnicity, are celebrating and have been inadvertently involved in this election due to Our Nations Peril influenced by "Our Chief in Commands Decisions". The children have lost their homes, their parents lost savings, jobs, investments . Our nation is in a detrimental state of confusion. Be it Obama's Democratic election to ease the pain of hardships on their families, and ultimately on our Nation to set forth Change For the People, let "Their Joy" fill All of our lives. We must UNITE As Americans and leave the color tags behind Go Forward as One Nation, under God with Liberty and Justice for All.
It's really not about race here-- it's about the HOPE these kids are feeling.... Bravo to the teacher for sharing this with us...
I'm sure there's white kids that would like to see a white running back in the NFL.....but if they said it they would be labeled racist
Not surprised it didn't make it.
Awesome story. Thanks.
Finally ALL young Americans can know that AMERICA
and its future actually BELONGS TO THEM.
The ultimate ownership society as finally arrived. Thank you Barack for all you have accomplished (already).
(quote) he won because of this huge reversediscriminition tendincy in this country, it makes me sick. Lets see, a veteran who was tortured for this countrys freedom, OR A MAN WHO HATES INDIVIDUALITY! (unquote)
Dear 'Pissed Off':
I'm sorry that you are pissed off. I'm sorry that your candidate didn't win. (Well, not really, but that's besides the point.) However, one item of clarification - Senator McCain WAS NOT 'tortured for this country's freedom' (your words). Senator McCain WAS tortured because he did a poor job of flying an airplane in another sovereign country's airspace. I don't remeber the North Vietnamese attacking our country or threatening our freedom.
To "Pissed Off":
Learn to spell. Or buy a dictionary.
Wouldn't it have been a better lesson to also show McCain's gracious concession speech? Would the teacher have shown McCain's victory speech had he been elected?
There is a fine line between seizing and exploiting a "teachable moment", and forcing your opinion down the throats of a captive audience. Don't try to be the students' friend...be a responsible adult who is able to recognize the value of all sides.
I love to read articles like this one. I am a displaced Bostonian teaching in Phoenix and I had to endure a lot of negative comments, to which I am not allowed to respond. The most difficult to hear was "Obama will just get assassinated, Biden will be president and then everything will be back to normal."
#33 Tom R......is basically saying all African-Americans are and I QUOTE " killers,dealers,rapist, RAPPERS, and unemployed" "but DON'T expect some transformation among African-Americans" END QUOTE that's just wrong!!
#28.... ITS DORCHESTER not...dorcester
I AGREE WITH CHUCKDOG......................
MCCAiN WHO???
bagman- what does it matter that he is "african"...I think its great that the US has elected its first black president but to think that EVERYTHING will now be different is setting these kids up. People are acting like they won the lottery....sorry to break it to y'all but things aren't going to change that much
The classroom, especially one in which civics or history is not taught, should not be a platform for political discussions. While the enthusiasm of the previous night's events certainly infused the school with ebullience, that spirit should be checked by the disciplined teacher.
Furthermore, candidate Obama won because he was not a Republican.
This is ridiculous - the reason these kids reacted the way they did to Obama is because it was literally SHOVED down their throats that he was the best and only choice for President. I am sure McCain was not even mentioned in the classroom and if he was it was in a negative light. Maybe if these kids knew that John McCain was a courageous war hero who went through literal hell for his country and for THEIR futures they'd have some respect for him too. It's sickening the way academia is brainwashing children already at this age to renounce the ideals of the GOP. This is a disgrace if you ask me.
I feel bad for anyone in that school who supported McCain. Think they felt they could make their voice heard? This story is scary. The indoctrination of our children taken a frightening step further. How about encouraging individuality? Why not show them McCain's concession speech, given with tons of class and humility. McCain's words explaining that Barack is our President and we must all make an effort for the nation. No, just blindly celbrating the words "hope, change, unity (how is that supposed to happen with a FAR leftist in the White House), etc..."
A sad day to see our children so brainwashed by their educators and the media.
Kids should have a mind of their own, not a single mindset. This swooning over Obama is nauseating. This is sick.
Well said Jason Berry
This is my first post, so please be gentle! I hope President-Elect Obama does not act like every other politician who promises change then doesn't deliver. I am concerned with his "vision" of change as far as taxes, individual rights, etc. but although I supported John McCain (but not George Bush), I am ready to give Obama a fair chance for the good of our country. However, I am curious why there is never a mention of the fact that he is half white/half black and was raised not by his African-American father's side, but his Anglo-American mother's side. All of the talk about multi-racial aspects of his life, but always the African-American side of the story told. Just a thought.
This was a heartwarming article. It's amazing to hear (both in this story and from friends/coworkers) about children getting so excited about politics. Hey, I'm 24, and it's amazing to see my peers getting so excited about politics!
The children attending the school in this article most likely have parents or grandparents who remember quite vividly the civil rights movement of this country. President-elect Obama does not represent an example of reverse-discrimination; rather, he represents the progress this country has made with regards to race in the relatively recent past.
I also agree with Em, that Obama respresents the hope these children are feeling (perhaps reflective of their parents' hope, but still).
Great job #63...thank god you found my typo...hear are a few more erors four you two corect and it's "McCain" no need to capitalize all the letters except for "i"
I'm sure the outpouring of excitement from these kids wouldn't be the same if Obama was white, but I think his color is more symbolic in this case than anything else. The fact that he is black (and of humble origins, and from Hawaii, and has a funny name) symbolically represents that he is a break from most other presidents we've had. It shows kids from all backgrounds that the old cliche might have some truth to it after all: That if they are determined and hardworking, anyone can be President of the United States.
John McCain is an incredibly good man and served his country better than most of us can imagine. But the son of an admiral who married money becoming presdient? Not so different.
To Smarter than a teacher--Why do you feel that teachers are not allowed to make typos or spelling mistakes? This attitude has always mystified me. Good teachers are not afraid to admit that they make mistakes, too.
My question about the writer's students is whether they'll do their homework, behave well in class when there's not an impending reward, and stop harassing students who try their best in school. I hope they'll hear the part of Obama's message that says to turn off the TV, do your homework and read a book as well as just being excited about his victory. Being excited is wonderful, but in the end it's the everyday hard work that makes the difference.
Honestly the ignorance here knows no bounds...We don't expect Obama to 'transform' the African American community...that's up to us! What you bigots fail to understand is that this is an amazing achievement for every African American and for America as a whole. You would never understand..you could never understand or maybe you just don't want to. It's more than that..for a Black man to be elected President in a country where at one time we weren't allowed to vote. For a country where thousands of African American men were sent off to war only to come home and face discrimination by the very people tthey fought for..... Yes, we know Obama is just another politician...but we have pletny of plack politicians, NEVER a black President. If this inspires inner city children to WANT to do something positive and actually get excited about learning, what's wrong with that?! No, it's not going to stop a killer from killing. , but it will give our young black men and women reason to really really believe that they can get a fair shake in this world if they put forth the effort and WILLINGNESS to learn. It lets them know that they can make a difference in the world. That's what he stand for...But you can't see that...all you see is hate for people who are not like you!! Shame on you for having such a negative attitude toward CHILDREN who are actually excited about something besides who's wearing what..SHAME ON YOU!!
"The classroom, especially one in which civics or history is not taught, should not be a platform for political discussions. While the enthusiasm of the previous night's events certainly infused the school with ebullience, that spirit should be checked by the disciplined teacher."
Jason,
There's nothing wrong with political discussions in classrooms. The political "ebullience" of these students should be fostered and encouraged. Education is a large platform in politics; therefore, politics affects every classroom, whether or not the teacher is certified to teach history or civics. The teacher in this article used the children's enthusiasm as a motive to keep them well behaved for the rest of the day.... Given the usual apathy of the typical student body, the enthusiasm in the results of this election should be taken as a teachable moment.
Tom R - you really need to get out of your bubble; you are completely out of touch with reality. There are lots of people where I live that are drug dealers and they are all white. Are you aware of any of the worst serial killers in this country? Almost all white. You find it easier to move the blame somewhere else instead of trying to deal with the problem. You are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem. I encourage you to exercise your freedom as an American and take advantage of the fact that you are free to leave whenever you would like, assuming some other country wants to put up with you.
To Concerned in New England,
I agree that it would have been beneficial for the students to see McCain's consession speech as well. His speech was gracious and classy. The speech could have 1) served to demonstrate to the children the importance of listening to other peoples' points of view and 2) serve as an example of "good sportsmanship", which all children could benefit from.
Your article moved me. Having been an 8th grade teacher of quite possibly the most hated topic on the planet (mathematics), I understand how incredible the experience of adolescents in a good mood must have been for you! It is one of those rare times that those of us who work with chidlren and adolescents write about and stow away to serve as inspiration and rejuvenation when things in our professional lives are not so positive. I am an educated (BA, MSW, JD,...) person of MANY colors who identifies as African American; my nephew, brother, father, uncles, gradfathers, and great gradnfathers all served this country... and my great, great grandfather served in the 5th Colored Cavalry from Massachusetts. I voted for Obama and am proud to say that I donated to his campaign.
As
Say what you will about Obama but this is a historic win. Do you not think that Irish Catholic kids were proud of JFK? Proud to see one of their own do so well.
It is a shame that conservatives and Republicans regard liberty, equality and democracy as partisan Democratic values. In reality, they are core American values. Liberty without equality leads to tyranny by the rich and powerful -- as the past eight years prove. Let's never go backward.
To SmarterThanATeacherAndEditor,
Did you ever consider that the term "people of color" does not only refer to African-Americans, but to Hispanics, Asians, etc.? I bet no matter how this teacher referred to her students, you would have found fault with it. Is "non-White" better? Seriously, we need to start realizing that "people of color" does not always equal black.
I also don't think that many students related to Obama simply because he is of African descent. I think they related to him for many reasons...his youth and his young children being a couple of them.
I don't see why this is such a heartwarming article. So it's okay for students to be disobedient if they agree with your politics? I wonder if it would be equally heartwarming to you if McCain had won and your students were exhibiting the exact same behavior.
By the way, I voted for Obama and hope he can turn things around. But let's not get carried away here, he has not yet proven anything except for the fact he is an eloquent speaker and good campaigner.
Vera -You must be joking. It would not have been the same if McCain were elected and students were celebrating. Schools are loaded with left wing idealogues and most do not tolerate dissent with their opinion. Aside from their left wing ideology, what drives teachers most is their desire to get more cash for less work. Ever wonder why no teacher ever suggests working more hours as a means to make more money? I have an idea. How about if we raise all teachers' pay by 30%. In exchange, they can work 46 to 50 weeks per year, reamining at school from 8:30am to 5:00 pm each day. Fair enough?
What is wrong with you people? Do you only feel good about yourselves by denigrating others?
Plain and simple- ask these children why they are so happy and you'll get this answer, 'change!' 'hope!' Just don't follow-up their response with, 'How's he gonna do that?' you'd get silence.
I find it funny how McCain should have been elected President because he was a POW who endured torture for many years. Apparently this didn't matter when he was running against the great war hero George Bush in 2000 who defended Texas from an invasion of the viet cong during the Vietnam war. How small minded do you have to be to not understand the significance an Obama victory would have on minorities in the U.S. Did you even listen to McCain's concession speech? If only McCain kept to that tone in his election bid instead of resorting to all the rhetoric he ended up campaigning on he may have actually won.
To The Realist - You're missing my point entirely. You said he is like every other politician. I am telling you he is not. The fact that he made it is huge, whether people care to admit to it or not. I support Obama, and I realize the importance of this moment. I don't think anyone was saying everything will be different; to be sure, I feel most things will remain virtually the same, with small changes such as starting on the right path to fixing our environment.
To Annie - Don't pretend you know the talks that went on in those classrooms. Plus, Republican ideals are not meant for a classroom. Creationism? Totally invented. Bible studies? No thanks. Terrible financial policies? I wouldn't want to learn those. Bigotry? I'll pass. Selling your soul for the almighty dollar and to help giant corporations usurp MORE money from Americans? If that was taught, our country would be on a path to destruction.
Concerned in New England - why not show McCain's speech? Because they didn't want to hear it. Right wingers whine and whine about unfairness when they're left out. But they go above anbd beyond to leave out liberals. Heresy!
It's wonderful to see children celebrating, but even as a supporter of Obama, I find myself wary of this for 2 reasons - one is that children of any opposing point of view can feel crowded out by excessive display of jubilation. The second, more important one, is that if we are going to move beyond partisanship, we should learn to respect each other - one of the roles I see of teachers is to temper things so that enthusiasm doesn't cross the line of offending those who disagree with us.
Wonderful. I think what I've found the most heartening is that for the first time Black folks might be feeling a true part of the American fabric fully rather than some shameful reminder of a terrible inhumanity this country has yet to acknowledge.
I remember my students cheering with unbridled joy when OJ Simpson was
declared innocent . Whats the point of this article ?
Alfman in an even exchange time for money 30% would not be enough .
Make it an even exchange then we are talking . Bumping my pay to 110K plus
would really set me up for a great upcoming pension . 90K /yr for life !
where do I sign ?
I am black. When people say "people of color" in front of me, it deeply offends me. Ain't nobody colored me!
hey realist - i asked my 11 year old daughter who happens to be white (just in case your bigotted ears get in the way of listening to facts) how is obama going to make change. she said that he first of all will not attack a country who has not done anythign to the united states. then she said that obama will focus on fixing the economy by focusing on large-scale programs for alternative energy and then she said "because he is a better man than bush" ... which is where the real change will come in you bigotted trash.
"Would you be so glad if John McCain had won and they were doing the same thing? I suspect not."
Hey Dave, only people over 70 voted for McCain!
(cue nelson:) HAA HAA!
#33 Tom R- Thanks for reminding us that ignorance and racism persist in the form of yourself. You create your own reality.
#45- You look like a drooling idiot who hasn't done their homework and drinks out of Rush's bowl. Check back in 2012 and see if you were taxed out of your milk money.
#85- He already did 'change' and 'hope' for these kids by achieving the status of President. They have his respect and admiration. Had McCain won, it would have been just another old white guy and the same old same old.
#33
Tom R... that was a pretty amusing an ignorant opinion, based on nothing more than what your own racist mind could fabricate.
If you want to speak about generalizations, check out the the registered sex offenders list in MA or any state for that matter... it's mostly white, and a sprinkle of Hispanics, but very few Blacks.
Didn't realize that being a rapper was such a horrible thing, there are many prominent and articulate rappers... who are happy with their careers and enjoy their success. Would it be okay for them to sing country music or rock-n-roll?
And remember, black criminals are usually killing other black criminals, while whites are killing innocent women and children. Have you seen the latest headlines. Every pretty white female and child that has been killed lately, has been by a white man.
Ask yourself... why are there are so many minorities unemployed? It's because they are receiving sub-par education, their communities have been forgotten, and they aren't given the same opportunities. I've lived in wealthy neighborhoods as well as poverty stricken neighborhoods, I promise you there is a difference. There has not been any equality in this country by any means, and to ignore the racism is only allowing it to continue. Just Obama's being elected has given children back the will to dream of things that were once beyond their wildest imaginations... and that's how motivation and change is inspired.
I'm grateful for this conversation even for some of the idiots who are posting. The world is changing and they are being left behind. They should just dig a hole, crawl in it and die there!!!
#33
Tom R... that was a pretty amusing an ignorant opinion, based on nothing more than what your own racist mind could fabricate.
If you want to speak about generalizations, check out the the registered sex offenders list in MA or any state for that matter... it's mostly white, and a sprinkle of Hispanics, but very few Blacks.
Didn't realize that being a rapper was such a horrible thing, there are many prominent and articulate rappers... who are happy with their careers and enjoy their success. Would it be okay for them to sing country music or rock-n-roll?
And remember, black criminals are usually killing other black criminals, while whites are killing innocent women and children. Have you seen the latest headlines. Every pretty white female and child that has been killed lately, has been by a white man.
Ask yourself... why are there are so many minorities unemployed? It's because they are receiving sub-par education, their communities have been forgotten, and they aren't given the same opportunities. I've lived in wealthy neighborhoods as well as poverty stricken neighborhoods, I promise you there is a difference. There has not been any equality in this country by any means, and to ignore the racism is only allowing it to continue. Just Obama's being elected has given children back the will to dream of things that were once beyond their wildest imaginations... and that's how motivation and change is inspired.
Exactly, Bam1525. The same way Kennedy showed Catholics and the grandchildren of immigrants they had a chance, Obama is showing other minorities.
The whole point of this article was just that this election did the unthinkable - made 13 years olds care about politics.
Thank you for sharing your story of which I am sure there were similar stories across the state and country in both urban and suburban schools. As someone who voted for McCain, I was disappointed that he lost, but I am excited today to see the excitement that the Obama win has generated among so many people, especially the children. For so long, apathy has marked the democratic process. For quite awhile Americans have taken for granted a right that citizens from so many other countries could only dream of. My hope is that the excitement displayed this week, continues to be developed and nutured because the children are the future of this country.
Excellent article.
When children proactively express themselves in such a manner it shows how vote for Obama as a vote for hope and change.
With tears streaming down my face and a true feeling of hope for the world I scrolled down to write this comment - only to read the cruel words of those who would express themselves with racism, ignorance and overall disregard for others when discussing their views.
Those types of people could learn a thing or two from Felicia's students on how to play nice.
The baton has been passed - its time for us to usher in a new era of peace and prosperity for all Americans.
I was in Catholic elementary school when our nation's first catholic president was elected. It was exciting for all of us. So in a way I know how exciting these days are for kids. I hope it ends better for them than it did for my generation. However, I will be a happier American when a decendent of a former slave is elected to be President. Barack Obama is half black and half white. His direct decendency is from a non-US citizen African man and an American woman. I will be further elated if the first true black american elected is a woman.
I see all these peple writing that Obama brings motivation to young black whom never thought they could be someone, i don't understand why young blacks today need someone of color in office to be motivated. They are just as capable of being successful in today's world as any other white child. Yeah, blacks were discriminated against decades ago, but today it is different. Blacks live in a world where there are more rights for a black person than a white person, what else do they need for motivation. I think what dissapoints me the most about this election is that so many (not all) blacks only voted for Obama because of his color, and failed to do research on who he is. Who watched the BET awards? Lil Wayne and all his buddies made sure to yell from stage, "VOTE BLACK". Let me ask you a question, what would happen if we started 'White Entertainment Television', probably a riot?
The sad part about the happiness of these children is they don't realize Americans have just voted in a radical man to run our country. Apparently the teacher doesn't realize it either.
Read this. Very inspirational.
Mr. Smarter than a Teacher and Editor... did you not think that when the teacher wrote about her classroom full of "children of color" also referred to the children of Latino, Asian, Carribean, and African families, including those that are recognized as African-American? Or maybe you did not attend that civics classes.
Being a teacher is a difficult enough job. Being a teacher of middle school students is difficult. Being the teacher in an inner city school is challenging. Wrap all of trhat into one person, you should all be thanking the good Lord that there are people who CHOOSE this profession
I took my 6th grader and my 20yr old to the polls. My 20 yr old son was voting for the first time. My 6th grader had to research the candidates and write her own speech to her peers to solicit votes. The days leading up to the election our kitchen table was buzzing with who we should vote for and why, debating the questions...feeling of excitement.
My 6th grader decided on Bob Barr...who knew I had a Libraterian in the house. My son exibited such confidence and pride as he cast his first vote.
This has to be the most exciting politcal moment in my life.
#92 - Nobody cares about what your 11 year old daughter thinks. If we did we would let her vote...and why does it matter that she is white?
So your saying that Bush is to blame for Americas dependance on foreign oil? Good one...I imagine Buh was behind 911 and Suddam H killing hundreds of thousands of his own people too.
I laugh at you people who think Bush is to blame for everyhing and Obama is going to save the day
Kids rallying around their new president, and a bunch of right-wing cranks whining about it. Who's anti-American now? Also, nice job picking a fight with a bunch of schoolchildren. You really are a classless bunch.
What ever happend to if you can't say anything nice don't say anything at all. Some of you are terrible....they are children for gosh sakes.
Nobody has a problem with the children, it's the teachers comment, "all of whom are people of color " What does it matter what color they are? Why make that comment?
I agree in part with post #61. Seizing a 'teachable moment' is what teachers are supposed to do. It would have been better to have used this election, which comes every 4 years, as a time to show how the election process works (but maybe that was done in a unbiased way in previous classes). The victory speech and the concession speech should have been shown. (McCain did receive over 57 million votes. Are we forgetting that?) I thought it was wonderful to see a black man voted in as president of this country even though he wasn't my candidate of choice. The only thing better will be when America elects its first woman president.
The negative responses to this article contain an amazing number of blind assumptions: That the kids have had pro-Obama views "shoved down their throats" (as if they couldn't learn about him outside of school?), that the teacher would not have been happy if they'd been cheering a McCain victory; that the students did not know McCain's history; that their cheering for a black man means they must hate "Whitey", and on and on...
There is a word for assumptions such as these. Maybe these posters know that the word applies to them. Maybe they do not. But by their own words, these writers display a level of predjudice (there's the word) that shows us that we still have a long, long way to go in this country.
Hey chuckdog. I am sorry McCain lost, but not just for my sake, for everyones. RUSSIA is already preparing andor moving missles pointed at Poland. And whats this i hear, pakistan is already sending missles into Isreal! One day in office and hes already facing another TWO WARS. But i have HOPE that these countries have nothing but peaceful intentions.
Honor, Respect this teacher & ALL teachers. (Proud Dorchester educated adult live CA.) Thank Teachers 4 teaching solid educational foundations 2 Our Nations New Generation Black, White, Hispanic, etc. All children! Share these Kids Joy! Erase Hate & Color Lines. Neg. blogs arise from adults where Ignorance was taught, fed and bred 4 generations. Who need to "Wake Up"! Change neg. characters, personalities, genes. It's possible 2 teach "Old Dogs New Tricks". 1st Lesson; FACTS: USA in 2 wars abroad, stocks decline, high unemployment, home foreclosures. No Time 4 scrutiny war between races at home. A Nation Divided is Weak! Obama is Our Nations' Choice! Let us Go Forth as a Proud Nation, UNITED.
It's sad how most people can't understand how someone's background shouldnt' be a sign of hope for people who happen to share the same background. So I imagine it's a LOT of white people who are making comments about how Obama is insignificant and was "cramped down people's throats", being that they wouldn't make those comments if they understood why a kid who sees a face that looks like his on TV would be hopeful that "anything is possible". Of course McCain would not have made the same impact for people all over the world and minorities in the U.S., because he does not fit the criteria of an underpriveledged American in ANY WAY, SHAPE, or FORM, let alone his policies are made up of the same cloth that made everyone in the world DISLIKE the US.
Yes, Obama's election, whether he is a "great" president or not, sparked hope into a generation of kids and people who felt hopeless in a country that they thought didn't love them... like "I can make it too"... if this were the 20's or 30's and an Irish man would have made it to be president, the irish community would be inspired as well. So why belittle this moment in history?
I am a parent of an eight grader in kansas, are kids we just as happy they had there own vote with the same outcome as the nation. Note this is a state that went to Mccain
Let's be VERY, VERY, VERY clear, ALFMAN1000, I don't know ONE teacher who doesn't work 55 hours a week--at the very minimum.
To make this article and your response to it about teachers and their pay is pathetic. Furthermore, it would be wrong of me not to inform you that teachers (even the ones who don't necessarily forfeit any chance at a life outside of their career in service to their students) still work at least 55 hours a week. Maybe this isn't true in other parts of the world, but in the city--in this city--teachers work far more than 40 hours a week without campaigning for more pay. Also, there was not one teacher at my school who made his/her political party or candidate-of-choice explicit to the students throughout the election. We worked very hard to create the space for our young people to make their own decisions.
In the future, please don't make asinine comments about things that you are clearly not in the know about.
The responses to this article say more than the article itself about the state of racial affairs in the United? States. I hope everyone takes the time to re-read and reflect. The election of one man who is black? African American? of African descent? biracial? 1/2 white? of color? not white? (depending on the speaker) has certainly pressed a hot button in more than this 8th grade class! Wow, we are tormented as a nation, aren't we? Obama is one man who symbolizes so much for so many, yet his successes and failures will shape all of our mindsets about this country and the state of racial affairs-even if we claim not to be focused on race as a component of politics. Call it what you will....
Change is happening, regardless! They do say change is painful! I think it's going to be O.K. Breathe!
Thanks to the 60s...this would never have happened...imagine black people had to ride on the back of the bus....well now...times have changed....I am happy Obama got in and I hope things in this country are going to improve!
I really like #27 and #28. Well put. History is a very important subject when we are looking at our unique government. Let's not make or expect the same mistakes. Energy to get involved is the best but be specific and stay involved even after the party is done. And I mean history further back than 8 years. Barak Obama didn't win because of his "color", he won because we needed a leader to move us. Advice to our great American youth: Be careful; others have enticed youth and inexperience to move the wrong mountains. Remember that America is the PEOPLE not the leaders.
Like it or not. Ready or not. Barack Obama is our 1st Black elected president of the United States of America. As a teacher, my job is to inspire the next generation to dream bigger than they ever imagined. In a country where RACE is a serious issue, urban youth do not always have the ability to DREAM outside the confinements of their own neighborhoods. This was a very historical election for many reasons and we must not lose sight of how we can continue to inspire children across America of all races and ethnicities to dream big. To me this election represents that anybody despite one's race, ethnicity, class, gender, religion, language, etc can have the liberty to dream and to hope for something better and to actually be brave enough to pursue it. I use this election as a means to inspire all of my students to go after thier dreams.
To all of those folks who shared such racist and bigoted opinions, I just pray that the Lord gives you a new outlook and have mercy on your soul.
As a close friend of your father's, and a proud teacher myself, I want to say, "BRAVA!" to those 13-year-olds! Their day has, indeed, come...and so has ours, for we now have a president of integrity and wisdom who we can be proud of for THOSE reasons, not the fact that he is the first-ever person of color, male or female, to hold this premier office. Now, we must ensure that every day is a day like the one you had on November 5; we must ensure a world where wisdom and honor lead the way.
Professor Fandel
You know, I re-read my daily readings by the 13th-century poet Rumi for both November 4 and 5. Here is November 4:
MOVE WITHIN