Michelle Kuo – "Reading with Patrick" | 2017

Summary

In this heartfelt talk, the speaker reflects on her transformative experiences teaching in Arkansas and the profound impact on her life and perspectives. She shares the story of Patrick, a former student, and their journey reading together in jail, exploring the power of literature to foster self-reflection and change. The narrative delves into policy discussions around education, rehabilitation, and the challenges faced by ex-felons, advocating for empathy and understanding in addressing societal issues.

Takeaways

• 📚 The speaker, Rachel, emphasizes the transformative power of reading and storytelling, particularly in the lives of marginalized students.
• 🏫 Rachel's experience teaching in an alternative school in Arkansas highlighted the importance of providing quiet spaces and books for students who are often labeled as 'bad kids'.
• 🤔 She raises questions about the impact of reading together versus alone, and how it can foster a common language and emotional connection.
• 📖 The story of Patrick, a student Rachel taught, illustrates the complexities of life choices and the struggle with the justice system, showing that books can change perspectives but not always outcomes.
• 🔍 Rachel discusses the need for a shift in discourse around justice and education, making the invisible aspects like curriculum, violence, and truancy visible in policy conversations.
• 🏛 She calls for a reevaluation of how society views and treats violent offenders, suggesting that many are products of poverty and lack of support rather than inherent predators.
• 🌱 The importance of creating opportunities for reading and writing outside of the classroom is underscored, including addressing 'book deserts' in rural areas.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 Rachel shares her journey of self-discovery and the realization that knowing oneself is crucial for effective teaching and storytelling.
• 🔄 The concept of transformation is central to storytelling, with Rachel questioning whether the changes she and Patrick experienced are permanent or temporary.
• 🌟 The power of poetry is highlighted, with Rachel and Patrick finding connection and meaning in poems that resonate with their experiences.
• 🤝 The narrative concludes with a call to action for employers to hire and support ex-felons, emphasizing the need for societal structures to facilitate reintegration.

Q & A

What is the significance of Rachel's return to Arkansas as mentioned in the script?

Rachel's return to Arkansas is significant because it represents a place where she feels she came of age and where her politics and personal beliefs were transformed. It is also the setting of the story in her book, which revolves around her experiences teaching in Helena, Arkansas.

What was Rachel's initial impression of the alternative school she was assigned to in Helena?

Rachel's initial impression of the alternative school was that it was a 'dumping ground' for students who had been expelled from other schools. The students were predominantly African-American, and the staff was largely composed of substitute teachers. The school lacked many resources, including sports teams, a guidance counselor, mental health counselors, and a functioning library.

How did Rachel's students respond to silent reading sessions in the classroom?

Contrary to their usual noisy behavior, Rachel's students were remarkably quiet during silent reading sessions. They were found to be thirsty for books and quiet spaces, which was a revelation for Rachel and challenged the stereotype of these students being 'bad kids'.

Who is Patrick and what was his main issue during Rachel's second year of teaching?

Patrick was a quiet, introspective student who enjoyed reading and writing poetry. However, his main issue was his inconsistent attendance; he would disappear for days on end, which was a problem Rachel attempted to address by visiting his home.

What was the turning point for Patrick that led to his transformation?

The turning point for Patrick was when Rachel visited him at his home and convinced him to attend school regularly. As a result, he started to improve, began attending school every day, and even won the 'most improved' award at the school.

What conflict did Rachel face involving her parents regarding her decision to stay in Arkansas?

Rachel faced a significant conflict with her parents, who were unhappy with her decision to stay in Arkansas and not pursue a more traditional, lucrative career in medicine. They questioned her dedication to teaching children who were not even her own and expressed concern about her future, including her marital prospects.

How did Rachel's perspective on her students change after reading 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' with Patrick?

After reading 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe' with Patrick, Rachel realized her own narcissism in relating to the hero, Lucy. Patrick's identification with Edmund, the character who makes mistakes and seeks forgiveness, helped Rachel reflect on her students' desire for self-forgiveness and a sense of belonging.

What impact did reading haikus have on Patrick during his time in jail?

Reading haikus had a profound impact on Patrick. They allowed him to express his thoughts and feelings in a concise and poetic way. The haikus resonated with him, and he even wrote his own, reflecting on his life and transformation.

What was the book that Rachel and Patrick read together that led to Patrick writing transformative letters to his daughter?

The book that inspired Patrick to write transformative letters to his daughter was 'Gilead' by Marilynne Robinson. The book's narrative, in which a pastor writes to his son, influenced Patrick to express his love and lessons to his own daughter.

How did Rachel's experiences in Arkansas influence her views on education and justice?

Rachel's experiences in Arkansas, particularly her time teaching and later reading with Patrick, led her to advocate for changes in how society discusses and approaches education and justice. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the individual stories behind students and inmates, the need for rehabilitation, and the value of literature in transforming lives.

What are the three policy areas Rachel suggests need attention to improve the situation for people like Patrick?

The three policy areas Rachel suggests are: 1) Encouraging employers to hire felons and supporting their reintegration into society. 2) Rethinking the prison system, particularly regarding the treatment of mental health and addiction issues, rather than incarceration. 3) Creating connections between urban and rural areas and building institutions in rural areas to provide more opportunities and resources.