Yeah. About that.
So we're on Day #3 of the Chicago Public School Strike.
I've been playing with my Little People some more:
See the red lady with the glasses? She's the only designated "teacher" in all of vintage Fisher Price land. I feel so lucky to have her.
Okay. I'll try for something more substantive once I cave and let the kids play video games for a couple of hours tomorrow.
We did start CCD/REP/Religious Ed or whatever they're calling it nowadays. My kids may not be learning formal math, but I figure the 10 Commandments have got to count for something.
Some CPS moms I know are hosting little schools in their houses with actual lesson plans so their kids don't fall behind. Me? I spent 6 hours in the park encouraging the children to play with sticks.
Like I said the other day. It's been a long summer.
I'll keep you updated once I have news to report. Or when I have a nifty new Little People shot to share.
Whichever comes first.
"Ten Commandments" as math, hahahahaha
ReplyDeleteRather than buying new little people you might try designing and manufacturing clothing etc for the FP Little Peeps, start your own garment district! Put those kids to work, sweatshop, third or fourth world working condition, 85 hour work days, ... Hmmm, now that might even qualify as American History.
Now there's an idea. Too bad I can't sew. Perhaps I outsource someone to teach the kids how to do that?
DeleteTell your "Little People" to be on guard and strong. Apparently the big shots in Chicago are saying this is an illegal strike. I would hate to see the Little People behind bars. Marianne, if this law is enforced, you'll be posting bond for, I count, 10 of the Little Folks.
ReplyDeleteO.T. only 4 of them are wearing Red.
MBF
Ha! Good point. And I just got some new Little People photo ideas....Thanks!
DeleteSo you're homeschooling, but the only subject is recess? Sounds perfect!
ReplyDeleteRecess and music. They have all been practicing their instruments. It's something, right?
DeleteI'm sure the kids won't get enough of either one of those things at school, so it IS something. ;-)
DeleteI feel for you,I really do! I saw on the news last night that a Chicago teacher could make $75,000 a year? I think that's great because teachers do such valuable work and are often underpaid. I think the average starting salary here in Southern California for a teacher is $36,000 and it too is expense to live in San Diego (but maybe not as expensive as Chicago and then the weather is a bit better here at times). Anyway, I do hope it gets settled soon and like I said the other day, lets get the teachers and the students back in the classroom where they all belong (and a bit of respite for moms who have had long summers!)
ReplyDeletebetty
It's been nutty. And don't believe all the figures the press is releasing. It's not just salary, they are lumping in pension, benefits, etc. into that 75K.
DeleteBut geez, it HAS been a long summer!
Playing with sticks at the park is a great education for now and may save some of your sanity. I hope for the sake of everyone involved, there is some resolution soon. Meanwhile, your little people are gorgeous and I'm jealous and want to play with them too.
ReplyDeleteAny time you want to come by, Lou! I learned to share with others a long time ago. (:
DeleteI'm feeling sorry for myself because my kids got out of school at noon today. If we had a teacher strike, I think I'd actually move to another district until it ended. Glad you're finding ways to enjoy the time!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Vesuvias. Joe is a Chicago firefighter, so we are required to live in the city. I do love Chicago, but some days, the 'burbs sound FANTASTIC.
DeleteJust wait until they all leave home and then come back again...it's still sticks in the park! haha
ReplyDeleteNever changes, huh? Good to know, Tina! (:
DeleteSo glad you have your little friends to keep you company. What's your take on the strike? I never know what to believe in the media.
ReplyDeleteWithout getting too political, I'd just say that being a CPS teacher is like trying to fill the oceans with a teaspoon. Crime, lack of parental support, drugs, homelessness...forget the three 'R's. Teachers are expected to raise these kids and I don't think that's fair to them.
DeleteI've been following the strike on the news a little. In theory strikes makes sense, but in real life what a pain. I hope they get it settled soon. The 10 Commandments, music, sticks: It doesn't sound like the time is being wasted!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lillian! I feel a little less like a failure now. (:
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