September 2, 2016
Yesterday during senior seminar, we were asked to share our capstone ideas, if we had any. I was hesitant at first to share my idea, but after hearing the whole class, why not? I said that I wanted to teach the middle school students at Naylor Elementary School in Hartford about pulmonary hypertension. I chose this particular topic because my twelve year old cousin Sejla died two years ago because of it. Sejla and I both attended Naylor so I thought it would be perfect, since there’s so much to connect to it.
September 6, 2016
Mr. McKay told us we would be presenting our capstone ideas in detail on Friday for 45 seconds-1 minute. Now it's time for me to e-mail some potential mentors and teachers at Naylor. It's time to start getting serious and start doing what I want to do. It’s already the second week of school.
September 7, 2016
Today, I was a little shook. Mr. McKay told us we should’ve starting emailing potential mentors, and of course I haven’t. (I’m a procrastinator), but it’s also because I’m not 100% sure that what I plan to do is what I really want to do. It’s also hard for me to email a teacher/ potential mentor from Naylor because they don’t have a school website. I am now thinking of new capstone ideas that I could be better at… I have until Friday.
September 8, 2016
I told Mr. McKay about how I was having trouble finding emails of my potential connections/ mentors, and he was a big help because he has access to every email of the teachers in Hartford. I am now writing my rough draft of the emails I will be sending. I am also getting prepared to speak in front of the class tomorrow about my idea.
September 9, 2016
Today, we shared our ideas in front of the class by answering “who, what, where, why and when” with the information we have so far. I told everyone about my project and what I want to do. I also told them how I don’t have a mentor yet but I am working on my rough draft to email my potential mentor.
September 13, 2016
I sent an email to my former 6th grade teacher Mr. Fuller today, and explained my project and what I plan on doing. Hopefully he gets back to me soon and plans to hear more about what I have in mind.
September 14, 2016
Talking to Mrs. Boutilier today was a big eye-opener because she told me something I needed to hear. She said that most 6th graders won't want to learn about pulmonary hypertension. Not just that, but that there isn't much to talk about in more than one lesson. I now have to think about an activity I could do after that will hold Sejla’s memory on forever. Something like a scholarship, garden, or even a plaque.
September 15, 2016
I checked my email and guess what?? Mr. Fuller emailed me back!! He said he’d love to meet up with me at Naylor one day to hear more about my project. Now I’m excited, but also nervous. Hopefully everything works out well. I emailed him back asking if Monday is a good day to meet up and share my ideas with him.
September 19, 2016
Just got home from my meeting with Mr. Fuller, and things went well. I told him about my plans, and he tried helping me and even gave me an idea about teaching the 5th graders as well. He told me he’d run my ideas by the principal, as well as the 5th and 6th grade teachers and get back to me via email. I was nervous at first, but having him explain to me the current schedule made it easier to think about what days and what times are best for me to come in… now I’m ready to talk to Mrs. Boutilier and listen to what she has to say.
September 24, 2016
I just woke up and was checking my social media and my e-mails, and there it was. An e-mail from Mr. Fuller talking about how he talked to the principal and the other 5th and 6th grade teachers and how they’re on board with what I’m trying to do. Now I’m excited and have to decide when I’m going to start and what I’m going to do.
September 29, 2016
Mr. McKay went over my proposal letter with me, and surprisingly there are a lot of things I need to change. I need to ask Mr. Fuller directly to be my mentor so my grade on the proposal letter would be a 100, not a 75. I also need to talk to Mrs. Boutilier and get some advice as to when I should start and what days would work and what days wouldn't.
October 5, 2016
I just came back from a second meeting with Mr. Fuller, and it went great. I told him about the idea Mr. McKay gave me about teaching the kids about character education, and to tie it to the fact that Sejla was a wonderful person in every aspect. Mr. Fuller said that’s very important and needs to be taught to students their age. I also asked him to be my mentor, and he said yes. So exciting!!! Now my proposal letter is all ready to fill that empty spot in the last paragraph about who my mentor is. I need to now research more about pulmonary hypertension, along with character education. Mrs. Boutilier also liked the idea about teaching the students about character education, but of course I have to become an expert first.
October 6, 2016
Sat down with Mr. McKay and we edited my proposal letter, once again. It’s worth it though because I want the best grade possible. We added sentences and took some out, making it flow. I’m nervous to give it to Mrs. Boutilier, but I’m also ready to just get started with my project.
October 10, 2016
Got my proposal approved, and Mrs. Boutilier gave me and idea about fundraising money by doing a bottle drive. I really just need to talk and decide what days I'm going to go in and teach the kids, because I am eager to start.
October 18, 2016
Thinking about e-mailing Mr. Fuller and meeting up with him tomorrow because we don't have school tomorrow and it would be easy. I want to set up dates so I can start because time is running up.
October 19, 2016
Day off for the seniors, but no days off for capstone. I’m finding articles for my research paper, and it’s not as easy as I thought.
October 20, 2016
Showed Mr. McKay my 5 sources, and he approved 4/5. I printed out all of them in hopes to find some juicy information that I can use in my paper. If these articles don’t have the information I need, I’ll have to find different ones.
November 2, 2016
Today I made permission slips/ consent forms. for the students I will be teaching. The slips are a letter to families about allowing me to take pictures of their children so I can put them on my capstone website.
November 5, 2016
I’m planning on going to Naylor on Monday and giving Mr. Fuller the consent forms so that when I start teaching the kids, I can start taking pictures and be on top of my game. I still have to finish my character education power point in order to be so.
November 7, 2016
Starting my research paper and I'm not using my outline because I don't work well with outlines. I'm still procrastinating on telling Mr. Fuller when I'm going to actually start my capstone.
November 12, 2016
I am going over my research paper before I submit it, (which is tomorrow), and reading it out loud actually makes me find more mistakes than I thought. I'm adding more information and taking some things out to make it make more sense. I really hope I did well on this draft, and if I didn't, I hope I get more comments on how I should improve.
November 17, 2016
Went over my research paper with Mr. McKay since he graded it, and I'm very surprised because I didn't pass even though I thought I did well. I guess I didn’t do as good as I expected, but I’m going to definitely try harder as I revise it and ask many questions.
November 24, 2016
It is the day before Thanksgiving and there is so much to be thankful for. I am blessed with everything in my life, even through the tough times. Although my life isn’t perfect, I know there are people out there struggling during this holiday season. With everything basically being handed to me, I need to get out there and start my capstone because now it’s all up to me. I have everything done, I just need to figure out how I’ll start the teaching process and how I’ll present myself to the students. I should also e-Mail Mr. Fuller and keep him in the loop because he’s probably wondering what happened with me and my plan…
December 1, 2016
In capstone today my peers were telling me about ways I can start my capstone before actually teaching the kids. They said I can raise money for the plaque first and have it done while I’m teaching at Naylor. I really wish I was speaking to people I knew because that would make it easier, but at the same time, I think it’s because it’s a very touchy subject and even throughout Sejla’s journey, I never really took into account the actual details, I was just focused on making her happy and doing everything to be with her.
December 19, 2016
Realizing it’s almost break time and I haven’t physically started my capstone yet. I talked to McKay about going to Naylor sometime this week and he told me that it’s a great idea, and that I need to e-mail my mentor Mr. Fuller to ask him what day works for him. I went home that day and wrote out an e-mail that I’m going to have McKay read over tomorrow to see if it’s good.
December 20, 2016
Mr. McKay read over the e-mail, made some minor changes, and I clicked send. I hope that Thursday is a good day for Mr. Fuller, because that’s the day I asked if I could come in.
December 21, 2016
Mr. Fuller hasn’t e-mailed me back which is weird since he usually e-mails back within hours. Maybe he’s been busy because it is the week before break, and it is Christmas time.
December 22, 2016
It’s the day before I need to go in and Mr. Fuller has replied to me and said that Thursday works fine for him. I’m kind of nervous speaking to the classes because I don’t really know how they’ll react or if they’ll even be interested. Here goes nothing.
December 23, 2016
I printed out one hundred copies of the consent forms that the children’s parents or guardians need to sign in order for me to take pictures of them. I hope one hundred is enough, but if not I’ll be sure to make copies for the next time I go. I just came back from Naylor, and it wasn’t what I was expecting. I talked to five out of the six classes I’ll be teaching because one teacher wasn’t there. Some kids were very interested and nice to me, others were shy and quiet. I knew most of the teachers because I had them, and I visited my old seventh grade teacher who was so excited and happy to see me. I’m glad I have people there that still remember me because it makes me feel more comfortable. A lot of the students in the classes I’ll be teaching are Bosnian, which is also how I know them. Overall, my first day there was very eye-opening and I think the person that’s going to be impacted the most through this is me.
January 4, 2017
In capstone, I told Mr. McKay that I think it’s a good idea that I start my capstone the 23rd of this month because it’s when I start getting out early from school, and have more time on my hands. I can go to Naylor earlier and spend more time there getting to know the kids because I feel like I need to get more comfortable with them in order to be better at doing my capstone and get my purpose across more thoroughly.
January 25, 2017
Getting my pulmonary hypertension power-point all ready and set because Mr. Fuller told me that tomorrow is a good day to come in when I asked him, so that’s what I’ll be doing tomorrow.
January 26, 2017
Today went better than expected… the kids were really into learning about pulmonary hypertension, but some more than others. They were really curious because they know that’s what Sejla had, but they didn’t really know it in depth. They were really paying attention when I was telling the differences that Sejla was showing when she was beginning to show symptoms, and they were mesmerized. Some kids asked if she died with her family there, and were relieved when I said yes because they were happy she was not alone. When I gave them a quick quiz and reflection worksheet, some kids took it more serious than others. Kids told me I’m doing a good job on teaching others what Sejla went through, and some kids even told me how they dealt with her death and other deaths that happened to them in their family. I’m happy to see that these kids care, and that Sejla is cared for.
February 2, 2017
Just came back from Naylor and got a lot of things done. When I first came in, I talked to the lady at the front desk in the main office and asked about a plaque that was already there. I wanted to know if she knew where they got it made, etc. She told me to ask the principal at the end of the day. After this, I went to Mr. Fuller’s classroom and started character education, and talked about trustworthiness first. It was more of an open-discussion with the class because my power-point consisted of many questions that I was curious to hear what their answers would be. Many students participated, but others were not really paying attention and were out of their seats. It’s the end of the day, and I expected nothing less. One student in particular, a Bosnian boy, whose parents I knew, stood out the most. When he first walked in the class and saw me, he made a big sigh and rolled his eyes while telling his friend he hates when I’m there. It’s only been the third time I’ve been teaching!!! I was shocked, but it just made me want to engage him in the lesson somehow, and even though I didn’t today, I definitely will in other lessons. When the students were dismissed, I went to the principal and talked to him about it. He was so on board, but directed me to another teacher he thinks would have information, and funny enough, I knew who the teacher was! Boro Banjak, who was at Naylor when I was there too. He served as a translator for my parents when they went to parent teacher conferences. The principal told me Mr. Banjak is available Mondays and Wednesdays, which is when I will see him. Overall, today was a very successful day.
February 6, 2017
Talked to Mr. Banjak today, and it was nice seeing him after such a long time. He asked me how I’m doing and what I’m up to, and I told him about my capstone and how I want to do a plaque for Sejla like the one that was in the main office for Srebrenica. He told me that he didn’t know, but that people from the Mosque had organized it. He also told me that the principal spoke to him about a lady who wanted to come in and do something in Sejla’s memory, and I knew the lady!! It was Wilma, the lady who organized Sejla’s Make A Wish wish, and who also became a very close friend to Sejla. I was surprised because the principal didn’t tell me anything about this when I talked to him, but it might’ve happened recently. I have to talk to Mrs. Boutilier and ask her if I should team up with Wilma and help her, or get more information about her plan because it might be something different than what I was planning on doing.
February 14, 2017
Todays edition of character education: RESPECT. I did an activity with the kids on what it feels like to be disrespected, respected, and ways to be respectful. Some kids participated more than others, and it broke my heart when I heard more of the quiet and conservative kids raise their hands to describe how it feels to be disrespected. Even though this made me sad, I was also happy that they felt comfortable to say it in front of the whole class. While I was doing this with the class, some students were talking over me and the kids who were raising their hand, so I said "since I feel disrespected, I'm going to write unimportant under 'How it feels to be disrespected'" and this seemed to make the kids realize that times like these respect is very important. When I was done, a girl handed me a "Happy Valentines" day card that she made for me and my heart filled with joy. Little gestures mean a lot to me, and I felt important.
February 15, 2017
After trying to reach Wilma a couple of times, she finally answered! I reminded her who I was, and she was so happy to speak to me. I told her how I heard she wanted to also do something in memory of Sejla, and she said that that was a while ago but she's still up for it! She told me to meet with her at Bulkeley when we find a date that works for us both, and I said of course! We will be talking about ways to fundraise money for the plaque, and I will inform her more about my project. I am so excited that everything is coming together so well.
February 16, 2016
I walked into Mr. Fuller’s classroom while he was still teaching math, and he told me if I can just let him finish up their lesson, and that was no big deal. While I was listening to the lesson, I was stuck on this one girl who wanted to answer every question because she was confident and knew what she was doing. That girl, Almira, reminded me of myself and how I was six years ago. I smiled because it made me realize how much I’ve grown and how fast time flies by. Responsibility is a very important aspect, and that’s exactly what I told the kids at Naylor today. I went through a power-point with them, and offered them a chance to raise their hand and proceed to read a slide. I was surprised with how many kids wanted to read aloud, but it made me smile. We went through each slide, and after I broke them up into four groups and gave them each an irresponsible scenario, and asked them to present to the class why it was irresponsible and how it should be fixed. While I was telling them the directions, I noticed a boy who had his head down and then started talking to another boy. I purposely asked him to repeat what I had said, and he didn’t know what to say. I then asked if someone else could explain to him what I said, and a girl volunteered. They then discussed in the groups that they were in, and I was happy to see that they all noticed the examples held irresponsibility and ways to fix them. Today, I felt like a completely different person who was comfortable enough to tell the kids to pay attention, and I used Mrs. Boutiliers method of proximity, and it worked!! I walked around during my lesson (close to the kids who were talking,) and sure enough, they stopped!
February 23, 2017
Today in Naylor I talked to the kids in ways they can enhance their self-esteem because having a good level of self-esteem brings you into thinking more positive, and therefore being a better person. The kids were very talkative, but Mr. Fuller warned me about this. He told me that there was just some drama that happened between some kids, so everyone was very rowdy. From someone who's been in their shoes, I understood. What I didn't understand is how some students acted like I wasn't even there. I still continued with my lesson, and spoke/ made eye contact to the kids who were paying attention to me. After my self-esteem lesson, I did an activity with the kids called the "Self-Esteem Bucket" This was a bucket that was supposed to divide the negative words/ actions from the positive ones. I asked the kids what are some things we can do or say differently that can enhance ones self-esteem. The bucket did not become very full, but there were many good comments made.
February 27, 2017
I met with Wilma at Bulkeley High School at 2:15 because that is where she works part-time and it's easy for me to get to her. We talked about the plaque and I was so excited because she had the information all ready for me. She continued to tell me how proud she is in who I'm becoming and how lovely it is to see me again, and I told her the feeling is mutual. Wilma has helped Sejla and her family so much and I'm so thankful for her. Whenever Sejla's parents need something, Wilma is there to help. She had all the information I needed about the plaque. How much it's going to cost, (surprisingly, not that much) and ways we can fundraise money. I'm going to ask Mr. Laverty if I can organize a dress-down day for just the seniors and have them wear purple because that is the pulmonary hypertension color. I really hope this works out and I'll have to ask him as soon as possible because if he doesn't approve, I'll have to think of other ways to fundraise money.
February 28, 2017
In Naylor we talked about setting and achieving goals. I did a quick powerpoint and what to think about when setting goals, then I asked the kids what are ways to help achieve goals. The list we made was very long, and then I was really surprised with the careers the students said they want to pursue. Some careers were lawyers, YouTubers, game designers, scientists, a real estate agent, and professional sport players. I also learned that 3 of my students already had a YouTube channel!! While the children were finishing up their short-term goals and long-term goals and how they will achieve them, three boys came up to me and made me smile. They said, “Miss., when you graduate tell us so we can come!” I'm going to miss them so much, and it reminded me how close graduation actually is.
March 2, 2017
Today was a very good teaching day. I started with "Does everyone know what today is?" Some students knew, and some did not. I told them it's Dr. Seuss' birthday, but it is also Read Across America Day. I asked the students to take a little time out of their and read a book, because reading is a thing that broadens our mind. I then asked them all to sign their names on a "Read Across America" sign. After this, the students and I talked about everyday pressures. Peer pressures, and social pressures. Even though these seem negative, there are also good types of pressures. These include trying new things, the pressure our parents give us to study, and the pressures we put on ourselves to become better individuals. I also asked them the different types of pressures they feel as a student, as a friend, and as a son/ daughter. What they told me proved how intelligent they are and how real-world things are happening, but there are ways to deal. Of course, the first answer both classes came up with, was a 2 letter word called "NO." We concluded that saying no, no matter how "un-cool" it is, shows that we are able to make good decisions for ourselves. Of course there were students who did not feel like participating, but that just made me ask them questions more. I wanted them to know I will randomly ask questions if I feel like they are not paying attention, and they quickly caught on. It makes me so happy when I hear previous character-ed topics being used. "Guys, show her a little respect" while people are talking over me, or "Hey, can you please be quiet?" I rarely ever hear "Shut up" but when I do, I try and be consistent and tell them to stop. Being consistent is something that Coach Martin told me today, is one of the things that need to be used in order for teaching to be complete. I'm so grateful for people like him and Mrs. Boutilier who give me tips that I'm able to use and think about for the rest of my capstone, and career.
March 7, 2017
To be completely honest, I don't know what happened today. Maybe it was the weather and the fact that the kids didn't have recess, but they were completely off. Today was the first day I didn't get to finish what I started. The first class I had did not know how to stop talking, and it wasn't just a couple people, it was almost the whole class. I thought that the topic was very important because it was on having a good relationship with your parents and why it's important. For the first class, I tried something new and had the boys and the girls write on their own big piece of paper and answer questions, but many did not want to cooperate. I saw boys on the girls side, and when I told them to go back to their side, they complained about the boys. I tried to explain that that's not the point, and they have to learn to get along somehow. What surprised me the most is that the boys were two of my favorites! They never gave me a hard time, I don't know what it was today. When we were finishing explaining what they had written down, I told them "I tried something new today, and it did not work out. I know some of you enjoyed this and actually participated, but most of you did not want to cooperate and make this easier for me." The second class was the same. I didn't even get to try out the big piece of paper, let alone the activity I had planned. Most of the time I kept having to tell the kids to raise their hands and not call out, and to sit down. While I was trying to explain the worksheet I handed out to them, one girl got up and went up to her friend and started talking to her! I stopped talking, and asked her nicely if she could please sit down. She gave me the most mean face, and angrily walked towards her seat, stomping her feet. I couldn't believe it, why does someone get so mad about that?? I even thanked her for sitting down, but she didn't care. A moment later, through the chatter, I managed to finish reading the worksheet with the kids that were actually listening and wanted to read. When I looked at the clock, it was almost time for them to dismiss. I said that we'd finish the lesson on Thursday, and this has never happened before! Hopefully Thursday is a much better day and more things will get done.
March 9, 2017
Much, much better day. I feel so relieved. The kids had a field trip today, and because many didn't attend, so they didn't come to school. Classes were smaller which made it easier for the kids to focus and me to give directions. I split the boys into groups and the girls into one because there only a small amount of them. They each had a scenario about how they would act as parents if their kids did something that was not appropriate for kids their age. It was amazing to see the different scenes they came up with and how they reacted. I loved seeing the kids work together, even though there were some who just did not pay attention. One kid, in particular, decided to jump around from group to group while I was giving directions, which is when I kindly asked him to sit down and stop. He didn't listen, but still thought it was my fault he did not participate. All I wanted was to show fairness to the other kids who did listen and wanted to cooperate. The girls were much calmer and were more appropriate actresses, while the boys were fooling around and not trying as hard. Naturally, things always work this way, and for middle schoolers, I wasn't surprised. Throughout the time I was there, I loved hearing "Miss Mirhada can you help us?" and "Guys, stop talking and show Miss some respect!" Some kids are so sweet and I'm truly going to miss seeing their adorable faces.
March 13, 2017
A major part of my capstone- complete. I went to Mr. Trophy and ordered a 12 by 15 plaque in honor of Sejla. I gave them a picture and an outline of how I want it to look like and the lady that was helping me completely understood and made it really easy. We went over every word to make sure the plaque will have no errors. What was also nice of her was turning a $53 plaque into a $40 one. I couldn't thank her enough, and I can't wait for Monday to see how the plaque came out.
March 15,2017
Finished making the certificates that I'm going to give to the kids for my way of thanking them for the opportunity they gave me. While I was emailing Mrs. Boutilier about my last visit at Naylor tomorrow and then I got an email from Mr. Fuller saying I have to re-schedule because he will not be in tomorrow. I have to meet with Mrs. Bout on Friday so we can figure out another date.
March 20, 2017
Picked up the plaque and it came out so beautiful. It made me miss Sejla even more, but I know she's in a better place looking over me. I am so excited to show the kids on Wednesday and have it hung up in the main office.
I showed the plaque to Sejla's mom dad and brother. They all stared at it and when they read everything, (I translated), and then her mom started crying. Her dad told me it came out really nice and then asked why, which is when I explained my capstone. Her brother wanted to keep it, but I told him it's for Naylor and he can see it whenever he wants because he goes there and it's in the main office. I feel so accomplished and I'm glad they like it.
March 22, 2017
Last day at Naylor, and it couldn't have gone any better. I'm so happy with everything and I'm glad Mrs. Bout and Bella were there. I gave my sincere thanks to the kids and to Mr. Fuller for actually giving me the chance and time out of his teaching for me to come in and do my character education lessons. The kids thanked me and I felt so whole. Bella told me my capstone was perfect, and it made me so happy seeing Mrs. Bout smiling and asking the kids what they took from my capstone. Bella took some wonderful pictures throughout the time I was talking, giving out certificates, and showing the kids the plaque. I gave the kids cookies, and they loved them! I also gave Mr. Fuller a "Thank You" card in which I wrote inside how much I'm forever thankful for this opportunity he gave me, and how it gave me a head start for my career as a teacher. Today was so so perfect, and when I went to Mrs. Lowe's class to give them the certificates, it hit me hard on how much I'm going to miss these kids. Kids said to me, "Ms, I'm going to miss you so much" and I realized I'm going to miss them more. At the end of the day, I went to the principal and showed him the plaque. He told me how beautiful it came out, and he hung it up immediately. I can't explain how much I've grown throughout my capstone, and it's definitely something I'll never forget. These kids and memories are something that will always be with me.
Yesterday during senior seminar, we were asked to share our capstone ideas, if we had any. I was hesitant at first to share my idea, but after hearing the whole class, why not? I said that I wanted to teach the middle school students at Naylor Elementary School in Hartford about pulmonary hypertension. I chose this particular topic because my twelve year old cousin Sejla died two years ago because of it. Sejla and I both attended Naylor so I thought it would be perfect, since there’s so much to connect to it.
September 6, 2016
Mr. McKay told us we would be presenting our capstone ideas in detail on Friday for 45 seconds-1 minute. Now it's time for me to e-mail some potential mentors and teachers at Naylor. It's time to start getting serious and start doing what I want to do. It’s already the second week of school.
September 7, 2016
Today, I was a little shook. Mr. McKay told us we should’ve starting emailing potential mentors, and of course I haven’t. (I’m a procrastinator), but it’s also because I’m not 100% sure that what I plan to do is what I really want to do. It’s also hard for me to email a teacher/ potential mentor from Naylor because they don’t have a school website. I am now thinking of new capstone ideas that I could be better at… I have until Friday.
September 8, 2016
I told Mr. McKay about how I was having trouble finding emails of my potential connections/ mentors, and he was a big help because he has access to every email of the teachers in Hartford. I am now writing my rough draft of the emails I will be sending. I am also getting prepared to speak in front of the class tomorrow about my idea.
September 9, 2016
Today, we shared our ideas in front of the class by answering “who, what, where, why and when” with the information we have so far. I told everyone about my project and what I want to do. I also told them how I don’t have a mentor yet but I am working on my rough draft to email my potential mentor.
September 13, 2016
I sent an email to my former 6th grade teacher Mr. Fuller today, and explained my project and what I plan on doing. Hopefully he gets back to me soon and plans to hear more about what I have in mind.
September 14, 2016
Talking to Mrs. Boutilier today was a big eye-opener because she told me something I needed to hear. She said that most 6th graders won't want to learn about pulmonary hypertension. Not just that, but that there isn't much to talk about in more than one lesson. I now have to think about an activity I could do after that will hold Sejla’s memory on forever. Something like a scholarship, garden, or even a plaque.
September 15, 2016
I checked my email and guess what?? Mr. Fuller emailed me back!! He said he’d love to meet up with me at Naylor one day to hear more about my project. Now I’m excited, but also nervous. Hopefully everything works out well. I emailed him back asking if Monday is a good day to meet up and share my ideas with him.
September 19, 2016
Just got home from my meeting with Mr. Fuller, and things went well. I told him about my plans, and he tried helping me and even gave me an idea about teaching the 5th graders as well. He told me he’d run my ideas by the principal, as well as the 5th and 6th grade teachers and get back to me via email. I was nervous at first, but having him explain to me the current schedule made it easier to think about what days and what times are best for me to come in… now I’m ready to talk to Mrs. Boutilier and listen to what she has to say.
September 24, 2016
I just woke up and was checking my social media and my e-mails, and there it was. An e-mail from Mr. Fuller talking about how he talked to the principal and the other 5th and 6th grade teachers and how they’re on board with what I’m trying to do. Now I’m excited and have to decide when I’m going to start and what I’m going to do.
September 29, 2016
Mr. McKay went over my proposal letter with me, and surprisingly there are a lot of things I need to change. I need to ask Mr. Fuller directly to be my mentor so my grade on the proposal letter would be a 100, not a 75. I also need to talk to Mrs. Boutilier and get some advice as to when I should start and what days would work and what days wouldn't.
October 5, 2016
I just came back from a second meeting with Mr. Fuller, and it went great. I told him about the idea Mr. McKay gave me about teaching the kids about character education, and to tie it to the fact that Sejla was a wonderful person in every aspect. Mr. Fuller said that’s very important and needs to be taught to students their age. I also asked him to be my mentor, and he said yes. So exciting!!! Now my proposal letter is all ready to fill that empty spot in the last paragraph about who my mentor is. I need to now research more about pulmonary hypertension, along with character education. Mrs. Boutilier also liked the idea about teaching the students about character education, but of course I have to become an expert first.
October 6, 2016
Sat down with Mr. McKay and we edited my proposal letter, once again. It’s worth it though because I want the best grade possible. We added sentences and took some out, making it flow. I’m nervous to give it to Mrs. Boutilier, but I’m also ready to just get started with my project.
October 10, 2016
Got my proposal approved, and Mrs. Boutilier gave me and idea about fundraising money by doing a bottle drive. I really just need to talk and decide what days I'm going to go in and teach the kids, because I am eager to start.
October 18, 2016
Thinking about e-mailing Mr. Fuller and meeting up with him tomorrow because we don't have school tomorrow and it would be easy. I want to set up dates so I can start because time is running up.
October 19, 2016
Day off for the seniors, but no days off for capstone. I’m finding articles for my research paper, and it’s not as easy as I thought.
October 20, 2016
Showed Mr. McKay my 5 sources, and he approved 4/5. I printed out all of them in hopes to find some juicy information that I can use in my paper. If these articles don’t have the information I need, I’ll have to find different ones.
November 2, 2016
Today I made permission slips/ consent forms. for the students I will be teaching. The slips are a letter to families about allowing me to take pictures of their children so I can put them on my capstone website.
November 5, 2016
I’m planning on going to Naylor on Monday and giving Mr. Fuller the consent forms so that when I start teaching the kids, I can start taking pictures and be on top of my game. I still have to finish my character education power point in order to be so.
November 7, 2016
Starting my research paper and I'm not using my outline because I don't work well with outlines. I'm still procrastinating on telling Mr. Fuller when I'm going to actually start my capstone.
November 12, 2016
I am going over my research paper before I submit it, (which is tomorrow), and reading it out loud actually makes me find more mistakes than I thought. I'm adding more information and taking some things out to make it make more sense. I really hope I did well on this draft, and if I didn't, I hope I get more comments on how I should improve.
November 17, 2016
Went over my research paper with Mr. McKay since he graded it, and I'm very surprised because I didn't pass even though I thought I did well. I guess I didn’t do as good as I expected, but I’m going to definitely try harder as I revise it and ask many questions.
November 24, 2016
It is the day before Thanksgiving and there is so much to be thankful for. I am blessed with everything in my life, even through the tough times. Although my life isn’t perfect, I know there are people out there struggling during this holiday season. With everything basically being handed to me, I need to get out there and start my capstone because now it’s all up to me. I have everything done, I just need to figure out how I’ll start the teaching process and how I’ll present myself to the students. I should also e-Mail Mr. Fuller and keep him in the loop because he’s probably wondering what happened with me and my plan…
December 1, 2016
In capstone today my peers were telling me about ways I can start my capstone before actually teaching the kids. They said I can raise money for the plaque first and have it done while I’m teaching at Naylor. I really wish I was speaking to people I knew because that would make it easier, but at the same time, I think it’s because it’s a very touchy subject and even throughout Sejla’s journey, I never really took into account the actual details, I was just focused on making her happy and doing everything to be with her.
December 19, 2016
Realizing it’s almost break time and I haven’t physically started my capstone yet. I talked to McKay about going to Naylor sometime this week and he told me that it’s a great idea, and that I need to e-mail my mentor Mr. Fuller to ask him what day works for him. I went home that day and wrote out an e-mail that I’m going to have McKay read over tomorrow to see if it’s good.
December 20, 2016
Mr. McKay read over the e-mail, made some minor changes, and I clicked send. I hope that Thursday is a good day for Mr. Fuller, because that’s the day I asked if I could come in.
December 21, 2016
Mr. Fuller hasn’t e-mailed me back which is weird since he usually e-mails back within hours. Maybe he’s been busy because it is the week before break, and it is Christmas time.
December 22, 2016
It’s the day before I need to go in and Mr. Fuller has replied to me and said that Thursday works fine for him. I’m kind of nervous speaking to the classes because I don’t really know how they’ll react or if they’ll even be interested. Here goes nothing.
December 23, 2016
I printed out one hundred copies of the consent forms that the children’s parents or guardians need to sign in order for me to take pictures of them. I hope one hundred is enough, but if not I’ll be sure to make copies for the next time I go. I just came back from Naylor, and it wasn’t what I was expecting. I talked to five out of the six classes I’ll be teaching because one teacher wasn’t there. Some kids were very interested and nice to me, others were shy and quiet. I knew most of the teachers because I had them, and I visited my old seventh grade teacher who was so excited and happy to see me. I’m glad I have people there that still remember me because it makes me feel more comfortable. A lot of the students in the classes I’ll be teaching are Bosnian, which is also how I know them. Overall, my first day there was very eye-opening and I think the person that’s going to be impacted the most through this is me.
January 4, 2017
In capstone, I told Mr. McKay that I think it’s a good idea that I start my capstone the 23rd of this month because it’s when I start getting out early from school, and have more time on my hands. I can go to Naylor earlier and spend more time there getting to know the kids because I feel like I need to get more comfortable with them in order to be better at doing my capstone and get my purpose across more thoroughly.
January 25, 2017
Getting my pulmonary hypertension power-point all ready and set because Mr. Fuller told me that tomorrow is a good day to come in when I asked him, so that’s what I’ll be doing tomorrow.
January 26, 2017
Today went better than expected… the kids were really into learning about pulmonary hypertension, but some more than others. They were really curious because they know that’s what Sejla had, but they didn’t really know it in depth. They were really paying attention when I was telling the differences that Sejla was showing when she was beginning to show symptoms, and they were mesmerized. Some kids asked if she died with her family there, and were relieved when I said yes because they were happy she was not alone. When I gave them a quick quiz and reflection worksheet, some kids took it more serious than others. Kids told me I’m doing a good job on teaching others what Sejla went through, and some kids even told me how they dealt with her death and other deaths that happened to them in their family. I’m happy to see that these kids care, and that Sejla is cared for.
February 2, 2017
Just came back from Naylor and got a lot of things done. When I first came in, I talked to the lady at the front desk in the main office and asked about a plaque that was already there. I wanted to know if she knew where they got it made, etc. She told me to ask the principal at the end of the day. After this, I went to Mr. Fuller’s classroom and started character education, and talked about trustworthiness first. It was more of an open-discussion with the class because my power-point consisted of many questions that I was curious to hear what their answers would be. Many students participated, but others were not really paying attention and were out of their seats. It’s the end of the day, and I expected nothing less. One student in particular, a Bosnian boy, whose parents I knew, stood out the most. When he first walked in the class and saw me, he made a big sigh and rolled his eyes while telling his friend he hates when I’m there. It’s only been the third time I’ve been teaching!!! I was shocked, but it just made me want to engage him in the lesson somehow, and even though I didn’t today, I definitely will in other lessons. When the students were dismissed, I went to the principal and talked to him about it. He was so on board, but directed me to another teacher he thinks would have information, and funny enough, I knew who the teacher was! Boro Banjak, who was at Naylor when I was there too. He served as a translator for my parents when they went to parent teacher conferences. The principal told me Mr. Banjak is available Mondays and Wednesdays, which is when I will see him. Overall, today was a very successful day.
February 6, 2017
Talked to Mr. Banjak today, and it was nice seeing him after such a long time. He asked me how I’m doing and what I’m up to, and I told him about my capstone and how I want to do a plaque for Sejla like the one that was in the main office for Srebrenica. He told me that he didn’t know, but that people from the Mosque had organized it. He also told me that the principal spoke to him about a lady who wanted to come in and do something in Sejla’s memory, and I knew the lady!! It was Wilma, the lady who organized Sejla’s Make A Wish wish, and who also became a very close friend to Sejla. I was surprised because the principal didn’t tell me anything about this when I talked to him, but it might’ve happened recently. I have to talk to Mrs. Boutilier and ask her if I should team up with Wilma and help her, or get more information about her plan because it might be something different than what I was planning on doing.
February 14, 2017
Todays edition of character education: RESPECT. I did an activity with the kids on what it feels like to be disrespected, respected, and ways to be respectful. Some kids participated more than others, and it broke my heart when I heard more of the quiet and conservative kids raise their hands to describe how it feels to be disrespected. Even though this made me sad, I was also happy that they felt comfortable to say it in front of the whole class. While I was doing this with the class, some students were talking over me and the kids who were raising their hand, so I said "since I feel disrespected, I'm going to write unimportant under 'How it feels to be disrespected'" and this seemed to make the kids realize that times like these respect is very important. When I was done, a girl handed me a "Happy Valentines" day card that she made for me and my heart filled with joy. Little gestures mean a lot to me, and I felt important.
February 15, 2017
After trying to reach Wilma a couple of times, she finally answered! I reminded her who I was, and she was so happy to speak to me. I told her how I heard she wanted to also do something in memory of Sejla, and she said that that was a while ago but she's still up for it! She told me to meet with her at Bulkeley when we find a date that works for us both, and I said of course! We will be talking about ways to fundraise money for the plaque, and I will inform her more about my project. I am so excited that everything is coming together so well.
February 16, 2016
I walked into Mr. Fuller’s classroom while he was still teaching math, and he told me if I can just let him finish up their lesson, and that was no big deal. While I was listening to the lesson, I was stuck on this one girl who wanted to answer every question because she was confident and knew what she was doing. That girl, Almira, reminded me of myself and how I was six years ago. I smiled because it made me realize how much I’ve grown and how fast time flies by. Responsibility is a very important aspect, and that’s exactly what I told the kids at Naylor today. I went through a power-point with them, and offered them a chance to raise their hand and proceed to read a slide. I was surprised with how many kids wanted to read aloud, but it made me smile. We went through each slide, and after I broke them up into four groups and gave them each an irresponsible scenario, and asked them to present to the class why it was irresponsible and how it should be fixed. While I was telling them the directions, I noticed a boy who had his head down and then started talking to another boy. I purposely asked him to repeat what I had said, and he didn’t know what to say. I then asked if someone else could explain to him what I said, and a girl volunteered. They then discussed in the groups that they were in, and I was happy to see that they all noticed the examples held irresponsibility and ways to fix them. Today, I felt like a completely different person who was comfortable enough to tell the kids to pay attention, and I used Mrs. Boutiliers method of proximity, and it worked!! I walked around during my lesson (close to the kids who were talking,) and sure enough, they stopped!
February 23, 2017
Today in Naylor I talked to the kids in ways they can enhance their self-esteem because having a good level of self-esteem brings you into thinking more positive, and therefore being a better person. The kids were very talkative, but Mr. Fuller warned me about this. He told me that there was just some drama that happened between some kids, so everyone was very rowdy. From someone who's been in their shoes, I understood. What I didn't understand is how some students acted like I wasn't even there. I still continued with my lesson, and spoke/ made eye contact to the kids who were paying attention to me. After my self-esteem lesson, I did an activity with the kids called the "Self-Esteem Bucket" This was a bucket that was supposed to divide the negative words/ actions from the positive ones. I asked the kids what are some things we can do or say differently that can enhance ones self-esteem. The bucket did not become very full, but there were many good comments made.
February 27, 2017
I met with Wilma at Bulkeley High School at 2:15 because that is where she works part-time and it's easy for me to get to her. We talked about the plaque and I was so excited because she had the information all ready for me. She continued to tell me how proud she is in who I'm becoming and how lovely it is to see me again, and I told her the feeling is mutual. Wilma has helped Sejla and her family so much and I'm so thankful for her. Whenever Sejla's parents need something, Wilma is there to help. She had all the information I needed about the plaque. How much it's going to cost, (surprisingly, not that much) and ways we can fundraise money. I'm going to ask Mr. Laverty if I can organize a dress-down day for just the seniors and have them wear purple because that is the pulmonary hypertension color. I really hope this works out and I'll have to ask him as soon as possible because if he doesn't approve, I'll have to think of other ways to fundraise money.
February 28, 2017
In Naylor we talked about setting and achieving goals. I did a quick powerpoint and what to think about when setting goals, then I asked the kids what are ways to help achieve goals. The list we made was very long, and then I was really surprised with the careers the students said they want to pursue. Some careers were lawyers, YouTubers, game designers, scientists, a real estate agent, and professional sport players. I also learned that 3 of my students already had a YouTube channel!! While the children were finishing up their short-term goals and long-term goals and how they will achieve them, three boys came up to me and made me smile. They said, “Miss., when you graduate tell us so we can come!” I'm going to miss them so much, and it reminded me how close graduation actually is.
March 2, 2017
Today was a very good teaching day. I started with "Does everyone know what today is?" Some students knew, and some did not. I told them it's Dr. Seuss' birthday, but it is also Read Across America Day. I asked the students to take a little time out of their and read a book, because reading is a thing that broadens our mind. I then asked them all to sign their names on a "Read Across America" sign. After this, the students and I talked about everyday pressures. Peer pressures, and social pressures. Even though these seem negative, there are also good types of pressures. These include trying new things, the pressure our parents give us to study, and the pressures we put on ourselves to become better individuals. I also asked them the different types of pressures they feel as a student, as a friend, and as a son/ daughter. What they told me proved how intelligent they are and how real-world things are happening, but there are ways to deal. Of course, the first answer both classes came up with, was a 2 letter word called "NO." We concluded that saying no, no matter how "un-cool" it is, shows that we are able to make good decisions for ourselves. Of course there were students who did not feel like participating, but that just made me ask them questions more. I wanted them to know I will randomly ask questions if I feel like they are not paying attention, and they quickly caught on. It makes me so happy when I hear previous character-ed topics being used. "Guys, show her a little respect" while people are talking over me, or "Hey, can you please be quiet?" I rarely ever hear "Shut up" but when I do, I try and be consistent and tell them to stop. Being consistent is something that Coach Martin told me today, is one of the things that need to be used in order for teaching to be complete. I'm so grateful for people like him and Mrs. Boutilier who give me tips that I'm able to use and think about for the rest of my capstone, and career.
March 7, 2017
To be completely honest, I don't know what happened today. Maybe it was the weather and the fact that the kids didn't have recess, but they were completely off. Today was the first day I didn't get to finish what I started. The first class I had did not know how to stop talking, and it wasn't just a couple people, it was almost the whole class. I thought that the topic was very important because it was on having a good relationship with your parents and why it's important. For the first class, I tried something new and had the boys and the girls write on their own big piece of paper and answer questions, but many did not want to cooperate. I saw boys on the girls side, and when I told them to go back to their side, they complained about the boys. I tried to explain that that's not the point, and they have to learn to get along somehow. What surprised me the most is that the boys were two of my favorites! They never gave me a hard time, I don't know what it was today. When we were finishing explaining what they had written down, I told them "I tried something new today, and it did not work out. I know some of you enjoyed this and actually participated, but most of you did not want to cooperate and make this easier for me." The second class was the same. I didn't even get to try out the big piece of paper, let alone the activity I had planned. Most of the time I kept having to tell the kids to raise their hands and not call out, and to sit down. While I was trying to explain the worksheet I handed out to them, one girl got up and went up to her friend and started talking to her! I stopped talking, and asked her nicely if she could please sit down. She gave me the most mean face, and angrily walked towards her seat, stomping her feet. I couldn't believe it, why does someone get so mad about that?? I even thanked her for sitting down, but she didn't care. A moment later, through the chatter, I managed to finish reading the worksheet with the kids that were actually listening and wanted to read. When I looked at the clock, it was almost time for them to dismiss. I said that we'd finish the lesson on Thursday, and this has never happened before! Hopefully Thursday is a much better day and more things will get done.
March 9, 2017
Much, much better day. I feel so relieved. The kids had a field trip today, and because many didn't attend, so they didn't come to school. Classes were smaller which made it easier for the kids to focus and me to give directions. I split the boys into groups and the girls into one because there only a small amount of them. They each had a scenario about how they would act as parents if their kids did something that was not appropriate for kids their age. It was amazing to see the different scenes they came up with and how they reacted. I loved seeing the kids work together, even though there were some who just did not pay attention. One kid, in particular, decided to jump around from group to group while I was giving directions, which is when I kindly asked him to sit down and stop. He didn't listen, but still thought it was my fault he did not participate. All I wanted was to show fairness to the other kids who did listen and wanted to cooperate. The girls were much calmer and were more appropriate actresses, while the boys were fooling around and not trying as hard. Naturally, things always work this way, and for middle schoolers, I wasn't surprised. Throughout the time I was there, I loved hearing "Miss Mirhada can you help us?" and "Guys, stop talking and show Miss some respect!" Some kids are so sweet and I'm truly going to miss seeing their adorable faces.
March 13, 2017
A major part of my capstone- complete. I went to Mr. Trophy and ordered a 12 by 15 plaque in honor of Sejla. I gave them a picture and an outline of how I want it to look like and the lady that was helping me completely understood and made it really easy. We went over every word to make sure the plaque will have no errors. What was also nice of her was turning a $53 plaque into a $40 one. I couldn't thank her enough, and I can't wait for Monday to see how the plaque came out.
March 15,2017
Finished making the certificates that I'm going to give to the kids for my way of thanking them for the opportunity they gave me. While I was emailing Mrs. Boutilier about my last visit at Naylor tomorrow and then I got an email from Mr. Fuller saying I have to re-schedule because he will not be in tomorrow. I have to meet with Mrs. Bout on Friday so we can figure out another date.
March 20, 2017
Picked up the plaque and it came out so beautiful. It made me miss Sejla even more, but I know she's in a better place looking over me. I am so excited to show the kids on Wednesday and have it hung up in the main office.
I showed the plaque to Sejla's mom dad and brother. They all stared at it and when they read everything, (I translated), and then her mom started crying. Her dad told me it came out really nice and then asked why, which is when I explained my capstone. Her brother wanted to keep it, but I told him it's for Naylor and he can see it whenever he wants because he goes there and it's in the main office. I feel so accomplished and I'm glad they like it.
March 22, 2017
Last day at Naylor, and it couldn't have gone any better. I'm so happy with everything and I'm glad Mrs. Bout and Bella were there. I gave my sincere thanks to the kids and to Mr. Fuller for actually giving me the chance and time out of his teaching for me to come in and do my character education lessons. The kids thanked me and I felt so whole. Bella told me my capstone was perfect, and it made me so happy seeing Mrs. Bout smiling and asking the kids what they took from my capstone. Bella took some wonderful pictures throughout the time I was talking, giving out certificates, and showing the kids the plaque. I gave the kids cookies, and they loved them! I also gave Mr. Fuller a "Thank You" card in which I wrote inside how much I'm forever thankful for this opportunity he gave me, and how it gave me a head start for my career as a teacher. Today was so so perfect, and when I went to Mrs. Lowe's class to give them the certificates, it hit me hard on how much I'm going to miss these kids. Kids said to me, "Ms, I'm going to miss you so much" and I realized I'm going to miss them more. At the end of the day, I went to the principal and showed him the plaque. He told me how beautiful it came out, and he hung it up immediately. I can't explain how much I've grown throughout my capstone, and it's definitely something I'll never forget. These kids and memories are something that will always be with me.