£3.99
Chalkboard Jungle
One Teacher's Struggle to Survive in the American Public School System
Brenda Connor's Dream
Brenda Connor dreamed of being a teacher her whole life. Recently graduated from college, she's thrilled when she gets a job as a public school math instructor. But her joy soon turns to despair when she realizes the job she dreamed of is something of a nightmare.
The Challenges
First, the length of her employment is based on the results of a standardized test known as the FCAT. What's more, Brenda's students are disrespectful and uninterested in learning—and in spite of Brenda's phone calls, their parents don't care. The administration is determined that students must improve their test scores—no matter the cost. Brenda quickly finds herself under the watchful eye of assistant principal, Mrs. Harrison, who— instead of offering her support— seeks to get rid of Brenda, documenting her performance in the classroom and threatening to place her on a professional disciplinary plan.
Friendship and Decision
Brenda's only friend, Mr. Fisher, is also under evaluation. They are both thwarted at every turn, harassed via weekly interrogations and classroom reviews. Brenda's dream of being a teacher is vanishing before her eyes, and she must decide: are students worth fighting for, or will she give in to administrative pressure and quit before stress destroys her body and mind?
