Ann M.

  Plessy vs. Ferguson... The Constitutionality of Segregation Over a hundred years ago , Homer Plessy of Louisiana, who was 7/8 caucasian, was sitting in a whites-only section of a railway car.  This was a  test of sorts to determine if the Separate Car act of 1890 was even enforceable!! Due to the fact that the law only applied to within-state lines, as opposed to interstate travel, Homer Plessy was arrested.  His arrest brought about much discussion and argumentation.  Plessy felt that the ruling against him went against the 13th and 14th amendments.  The court, however, did not agree, stating that their original ruling and situation had nothing to do with slavery.  But was simply enforced to "preserve public peace and good order."  Simpy put, "separate but equal" was considered constitutionally acceptable. *The case, in these days and times, certainly seems unfair and immoral.  I understand there is still a lot of prejudice and discriminat...

Ha ha ha!  My first blog EVER!!! It is important for our English language learners AND educators to make a connection between home and school culture.  These students are not just learning a language.  In many cases, these kids are learning a whole new culture, a new way of communicating.  We, as teachers, need to know where these kids are 'coming from'.  We need to understand how they live at home (or even if they came from another country!).  We need to be patient and realize that this is brand new for many of our students, especially the younger ones!  From my experience teaching in the city, I know that some of these kids come from places where they may have not received a formal education.  Some children have come from refugee camps.  I imagine going to school is the least important thing on their minds, while fleeing to safety in fear for their lives.  THAT is why we need to realize that these kids come from different backgrounds, ...