Nothing Can Stop Them

When working in education, we often hear talk about "social factors." Poverty, crime, and family stress are often part of the discussion. Those of us that work in the reform field have the privilege of being able to speak about such issues with an academic distance - it is not our reality. Occasionally, however, these issues step forward in a way that demands our attention in a very real way and forces us to recognize the reality of our students' existence.

There is a short walk between Hyde Leadership and the New York Avenue Metro Station. Usually, I make that walk each day, lagging behind groups of students so the contagious "uncoolness" of a teacher doesn't infect them. One day last week, a meeting took me away from my usual routine. On that day, two of Reach's tutors were attacked. While injuries were minimal, it is a too real reminder of the challenges faced every day by our students.

Always one to highlight the strength of our students, I feel the need to share what happened the next day. Both students arrived to work, as scheduled. Chynna, a tutor with perfect attendance, walked in with her hand wrapped. Before leaving for a doctor's appointment, she wanted to tell me, and her student, that she would be missing the day's tutoring session. I tried to suppress a smile when I found out that Chynna hurt her hand not by falling when attacked, but rather because she had hit her assailant with such force. Jayson, the original target of the attack went on as though nothing had happened. With one eye swollen shut, Jayson instructed his student as he does every Tuesday and Thursday.

After the session, I spoke with Jayson about the event. I offered to give him a ride, assuming he might be rattled by the week's events. As we left the building, I realized my offer was unnecessary. No fewer than five of Jayson's peers were waiting outside, willing to walk with him to the New York Avenue Metro. Having heard what happened, Jayson's peers refused to let him walk alone.

Their challenges are real. Their strength inspiring.

Thanks, as always, for reading.

Mark