For the past four years I have had the honor of being a long-term substitute in a class of seven amazing students ages six to ten. They are all nonverbal, disabled and have cognitive abilities ranging from six months to one year.
Many of my students are fed through a g-tube. While my assistants are helping those that eat partake in breakfast I have a morning meeting or “philosophical discussion” with DaBoyz: Bear, Luis and Daniel. I ask them how their night went and if they have any complaints about how the class is going and their suggestions to make things better. Because of their cognitive ability and lack of communication I am the one that does all the talking. If I run out of things to say, I'll read to them from the book I'm reading or I'll read them my email. As I'm reading my emails sometimes I rant, oops, "philosophically discuss" the contents of those emails. And throughout my ranting, oh, oh, I mean “discussing” the response of DaBoyz is quite interesting. Bear sleeps. Luis claps and laughs until he gets the giggles and gives everyone else in the room the giggles until the tears roll. And as our Poquito Danielito drives by (It's hard to keep him in one place.), he looks me straight in the eye, sticks out his tongue and blows raspberries! (I probably should have spent more time doing ABCs and 123s instead of teaching him to make raspberries.)
I have spent time reflecting on these morning meetings and what I've learned from the Great Philosophers of Room 77. From Bear I've learned my problems aren't important enough for him to wake from his nap. If Bear isn’t worried, why should I be. From Luis I've learned to just laugh! Laugh until the tears run down your leg. And finally, from Daniel, if all else fails, just stick out your tongue and blow a raspberry. Plato, Socrates and Aristotle got nuttin' on DaBoyz!
Recently, I was told I am being “riffed”. Apparently, the Cartwright District is “riffing” all of the retired teachers that are filling positions within the district. I am on the top of the “riff” list because I am a long-term substitute and plans are to hire a “real” teacher in my place. (Forty-four years of experience no longer counts, if one is just a substitute.)
I have learned so much from the students in Room 77. I have learned to love unconditionally, look at others with an open heart, just laugh and if all else fails, stick out your tongue and give ‘em the raspberries.
Spending time in Room 77 has made me a better person. I hope the next in line appreciates the lessons taught by the great philosopher of Room 77 and the others within that classroom.
