Melanie’s Blog

Friere discusses in his fourth letter the “indespensable qualities” of progressive teachers.  The qualities he talks about are humility, lovingness, courage, tolerance, decisiveness, security, the tension between patience and impatience, and the joy of living.  He points out that these qualities are developed through practice.  I definitely believe I have the quality of humility.  I know I don’t know it all!   I also feel that I am good about listening and am willing to try other teacher’s ideas.  I do not feel I possess the courage that Freire is talking about.  He is referring to the process of controlling and educating one’s fear.  I have never been one to speak up or fight for what I believe in, as far as teaching is concerned.  I have always done what is asked of me in the classroom, although I do not always believe it is what I feel is the right thing to do.  I guess maybe I fear, as Friere mentions, what might happen if I spoke up and went against my principal’s wishes.  I feel that my principal is my boss, an authority figure, and I have also treated authority figures with respect.  Although I do feel I should respect my principal, I do want to be able to approach her with new ideas, even though she might not agree with them.