Not much to report.

I went back to work after winter break, unlike last year, when I just walked away. I never talk about school here because there's nothing to say. Everything is going fine at the new school.  I'm 99% sure I'll get asked back for next year. Two more years for tenure. Wish me luck.

Any long-time readers of this blog may wonder what in the hell was that awful school I was working at last year. Now it will be revealed to you - MS 321 in Washington Heights. I'd like to find out if it's going any better this year, but my old teaching buddy (who's still there) has stopped returning my calls and e-mails. I'd heard through a former colleague that things weren't going so well.

Two differing opinions according to reviewers at insideschools.org:

"It's been a pleasure being a parent at MS 321," writes a parent. "My kids have been attending this school for a while now. It has been the best experience for me and my children. The coordination of parents, teachers, and staff being involved in events and services as a family is great. The welcome and attention that is given to the parents by staff and especially by the Principal Ms. Russell is greatly appreciated. I really am pleased to say that the help academically is amazing -- how fully staff are willing to help kids improve in their work, leading them to not give up." (February 2008)

"There are rumbles in the hallways every week, fights alomst every day, and a lot of gang issues," writes a student. "Not only that but this school does not prepare us for anything. Most of my peers have gotten 1s and 2s on state tests and no seniors have been accepted to a specialized high school. There are never enough supplies/classroom materials to help us out and if we do get them, their always given to us too late." (February 2008)

I'm more inclined to believe the kid.