[Editor’s note: Names have been changed to protect the privacy of teachers and students.] Before the pandemic, I had so many wonderful opportunities to watch wise teachers make strategic, in-the-moment decisions to support students. Our ninth-grade English teacher, Ms. Watkins, is one of those wise teachers. Ms. Watkins has a glow about her that radiates to kids. Her warmth is…
Author: Sean Healy
When This Crisis Is Over, You Can Count on Me for Free Hugs
“This next assignment may be challenging for some of you,” said Laurie Mulvey, one of my favorite college professors. “What I want you to do is create a sign that says ‘Free Hugs’ and then go to a safe location and hold it up. Give wholehearted hugs to those who take you up on it. But, most importantly… notice. Notice…
Your Long Thanksgiving Read: Be Many Things
Editor’s Note: Guest author Sean Healy, a Chicago high school administrator and volunteer teacher in Cook County Jail, shares his story, “Be Many Things.” It’s a long read that will remind you of the many possibilities inherent in human beings of all ages. Be Many Things The Cook County Jail’s maximum security division smells like the bathroom of a…