This book has really helped me to have a better understanding of ALL boys and their unique design. Its authors did an excellent job with providing not just WHY behaviors occur but also detailed ways on HOW to help boys in poverty.
Sadly, when a boy drops out of school he tends to become a statistic in the judicial system, which costs a community not only money, but safety. So, "the sooner the interventions, the lower the cost."
The book recommends a systematic approach of identifying at risk boys, then a consistent diagnostic approach of early intervention (not a wait-to-fail), with a use of the indicators and interventions noted throughout the book.
Teachers-
Be proactive
Build relationships
Establish mutual respect
Assess resources of family
Watch for disproportionate amounts of boys in poverty being placed in special ed
Involve the community as stakeholders within the school
"The talent that can be developed in an individual when he is educated, is phenomenal. We owe it to the greater well-being of everyone."
I like that the book concludes with a suggestion of solutions or interventions to help. I think when your group puts all of this together you are going to have a very valuable tool to share with your faculty.
ReplyDeleteI really liked this book, too. I think it did focus more on boys in general than on poverty, but I found it extremely helpful.
ReplyDeleteThis has been a great blog, Leigh! I think it will be a valuable source of information as we try to intervene and prevent future drop outs.
ReplyDeleteGreat job Leigh! I have learned so much and have had many of my own personal assumptions about the young boys I teach verified! I think we have a huge responsibility to do our part to keep this 'little men' engaged and learning!
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