Rivera-McCutchen’s (2020) case study was a change of pace for me. I enjoyed taking a pause from the dominant narrative of failed schools and leadership (p. 2). The article offered some interesting insights since I am familiar with the school through some organizing work in The Bronx. I particularly enjoyed the section on entering the field since it was the first time I got to see this section on a research study. It allowed me to understand the positionality of the researcher but also remind me to include this on future studies (my own positionality).
There’s something about this concept of radical care that caught my attention and I am now identifying ways in which to include this concept in my work going forward. Not only for my dissertation but for my work as a scholar and as a social worker. I need to do some more reflecting to fully understand what captivates me so much.
the section on Embracing a spirit of radical hope really landed well this week for me. I am still making my way through Bell Hooks (2002) “Teaching Community” and the chapter i just finished was on hope. Perhaps at some point I lost hope in being able to make small change (or change in general). We can both topple a system, and create spaces for folks to thrive within the system.
I have hope now.
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I completely agree Miguel!
This reading was a nice change of pace and provided us with clear examples of how to be transformative in our work. I was most impressed by the weekly community circles that engaged both students and staff as members of the community all fighting for the same cause which I saw as a “positive school environment full of trust, support, and academic preparedness”. I too was reflective of the ways I’ve built a community in my current role at Lehman. I was also saddened that the pandemic has interrupted this process a bit however, I still feel optimistic because as evidenced in the reading, changes and new ideas can cultivate a safe educational environment. I am willing to do the work!