Not a usual evening

Last night was great!

I went to a GAPSA (Graduate Student Council) Halloween party and it was a blast. Not only that, my friend and I won the costume contest!

Interestingly enough, I had a strange interaction about teaching with someone as I waited in line to get into the club. As we waited outside, conversation was sparked with the folks ahead of us in line. Coincidentally, they had graduated from secondary program a few years back. We talked about the program and tried to figure out if we new any of the same people. We then were asked about our placement and where we were doing our student teaching. Every went around and got positive affirmation until it got to me. As soon as I mentioned the word Kensington, their reaction was very different. In fact, they didn't say anything and just gave a "oh i'm sorry" and "why there" expression.

I was very disturbed by their reactions. For those of you who may not know, Kensington is a struggling neighborhood plagued with violence and drug-trade among other social ills. I love the fact that I teach in Kensington. It is exactly where I want to be a teacher. Is this not where we should all be if we are trying to commit to the idea of social justice? I know that teaching in Kensginton is not for everyone but I was appalled by the idea that my placement should receive negative reactions.

Fortunately, I did not let the interaction ruin my night. It was a blast!