Scales Mound Junior High School

CK: I hope they have changed policy regarding library books. Overdue library fines is not a reason to ban any child from checking out books. Help them with ways to stay organized, even if they come from a chaotic home life. Books saved my life, it's just a shame I had to resort to stealing them. (all returned of course when we finally moved out of town) I hope the majority of books is not still loaded with junk romance books with no basis for reality.

Academic concern I'd rate it average, but it has greatly improved over time according to statistics. Personal concern for students suffering stigma from classmates is an issue I believe. Teachers need to be more aware and pro-active regarding this problem. Bullying and extreme isolation affects a child far more reaching than academic success into adulthood. "Kids will be kids" is no excuse for kids to be cruel and teachers to look the other way claiming ignorance. Teachers here have a low student ratio, no excuses for failing to reach out offering at least one person to talk to, leading to better ways to help students succeed. Grades 5-8 is a critical period of emotional and self-esteem developmental foundations. Very dissappointed but hopeful for change for those kids who are deemed "not worth the effort" Don't they know that it are these kids, gems from the cracks, are the most willing to make a difference to their community later in life? (without the decades of stored up anger, like myself) My suggestion is to start up a mini-fund/donations to offer to kids who's families are in crisis...like for a girl riddiculed because she only owns one pair of jeans or can't afford to participate in extra curricular activies because of cost. The rewards of reaching out will keep the fires ignited for the passion of teaching. I have great respect for teachers, it's a huge job, but maybe one of the most rewarding in the entire world. Love your neighbors as yourself - I guess that sums up just about everything.