She would encounter Dr. Savas in her first English class. Reyna describes Dr. Savas,
"She had short black hair and brown eyes framed by glasses. She was not too tall nor too short, and full-figured-- "llenita,' as we say in Spanish. It turned out that she was a Greek-American who, to my surprise, spoke excellent Spanish. The thought that a non-Latina took the time to learn my native tongue pleased me and impressed me." (Grande 299)
As their relationship progresses, their connection deepens. Reyna finds comfort in Dr. Savas' honest smile. They discuss writing and books, Dr. Savas introduces Reyna to the world of Latino literature and, for the first time since Reyna has become and avid reader, she sees herself reflected in the characters and scenery. Reyna does not open up to Dr. Savas about the tumult at home until her father is jailed for beating his wife and Reyna has nowhere to go. Dr. Savas, or Diana, opens her home to Reyna. They cook and eat together, they discuss literature and film. Diana is always seeing the good in Reyna and warmly encouraging her to pursue her dreams. Their friendship will last into Reyna's adult years, as her career as a writer blossoms and unfolds.
As an educator, I am particularly drawn to this relationship because I feel like it is such a great illustration of how much of an impact a good teacher can have on a students life. In a study 570,000 students in North Carolina, researchers found that 'ninth-grade teachers who improved their students' non-cognitive skills- which include motivation and the ability to adapt to new situations, as well as self-regulation-had important impacts on those students: The were more likely to have higher attendance and grades and to graduate than their peers. They were also less likely to be suspended and to be held back a grade. These benefits persisted through high school." (Terada 2019)
When Reyna enters Dr. Savas' classroom, she is 'pleased and impressed' by Dr. Savas' fluent Spanish. Just the idea that a non-Latina would take the time to learn Reyna's native tongue, fills her with appreciation for her teacher.Teachers have an important job that goes beyond the realm of grades and academcs. Teachers have an opportunity to create bonds with diverse groups of learners and build social structures that encourage students to invest and succeed. I think this is one way in which Multicultural Education is so important. Being aware of the diverse cultures in your classroom and finding ways to genuinely connect with your students through these avenues fosters a sense of trust and belonging that makes the classrooms a safe place, ready for learning.
Terada, Youki. "Understanding a Teacher's Long-Term Impact." Edutopia. February 4, 2019 https://www.edutopia.org/article/understanding-teachers-long-term-impact. June 29, 2020
Brianna, I also read "The Distance Between Us: A Memoir" and gained a whole new respect for children with stories like Reyna Grande. I could not imagine growing up away from my parents, let alone only speak to them for about two minutes every two weeks. Times were immensely different as today people can stay connected as long as they both have cell coverage and/or internet service. Reyna Grande mentioned how her, Carlos, and Mago would go to school several times, and I could not help but think of students we will encounter and have in class that may have similar situations like her. If students will open up to us, it is important that we listen to their homelife situations as act professionally and caring towards them in our classrooms. I truly enjoyed reading the portion of the book where Reyna speaks of Dr. Savas and just how much she helped her. It is clear after reading about the mental and physical abuse Reyna suffered from many of the adults that were supposed to raise her and love her that she needed a special adult like her English professor to not only help her educationally but also emotionally. Like you said in your blog post, I also love a heartwarming story about educators and students bonding. I have a professor who is dear to my heart and we meet for lunch once a semester! She was one of my earliest mentors and she inspires me to become a great educator just like her.
ReplyDeleteI can see that you have a strong passion for this profession (which is ABSOLUTELY needed!) and that Reyna's story has meant so much to you as it has to me. Her story can help us continue to care for our students as we may be the only loving adult in their life. One of the teachers I worked with last year told me that he had an awful night, felt sick, and was annoyed at some personal issues in his life, but he would never show his personal feelings towards his students. It was not their fault that he had a bad day, so why should he project his negative attitude onto his students? That was one of my biggest takeaways from my field work that semester, and I feel like if more adults in Reyna's life took that approach, it could have made a tremendous difference. I have enjoyed reading your blog, and I look forward to our group discussion later this week!
- Kallee Knox
Thanks Kallee! I'm looking forward to our discussion as well. I loved this book!
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