March 2012

     It's been a good week. We are officially into the third trimester...yes. the last one. It's hard to believe so much time has gone by. But then again, it's been quite a roller coaster ride. I have finally learned 95% of the student's names, even piecing together brothers, sisters, cousins! Things seem to be flowing more smoothly. Now, my focus is being more adaptive and flexible with the scheduling. For instance, Monday the school dismissed at 11:30am because of conferences. I did not even realize this. Therefore, I did not reach out to any parents/students that had lessons in the afternoon. Oh well. Next Friday and Monday there is no school again..."Staff Development Days". Again, I have lessons on those days and it is so difficult to re-schedule them so everyone gets another time. This past Saturday, I even taught lessons to those who wanted an extra/make-up lesson. The parents seemed very appreciative. The students seemed more. I had great feedback from the parents. The students and I were even able to show off our 'dueting'. Then! We start spring break April 4th-15th...wow, these last 2 months have flown by. It's crazy! I feel so blessed that I've stuck to it, not given up, and tried to re-adjust my teaching to things the students want to learn about.
     Can you believe most students have never looked inside a piano to see how it works?! Such a simple and fairly easily executed lesson which the students really enjoyed. Even if they were just banging away on the thing, they were ALL smiling, from kindergarten thru 8th grade. I also let each grade take a turn banging the humungo bass drum the school has. They loved it! It was really cute and quite entertaining. I wish I could offer more instruments for them to try. However, singing with the older grades continues to be a challenge, and I must admit, I haven't pushed very hard. Lesson learned for next year, "Make them sing from the beginning". So much to learn. I would really love to get back into school and become more knowledgeable about music and teaching. This is my next endeavor, but one thing at a time.
     The 8th grade just received their high school placements. Quite a few of the guys are attending St Pats, which is where I student taught. I am so thrilled they are going there! I'd love to say I had an influence, but I can't be sure. Also, I will be writing my first recommendation letter for an 8th grader! She did not get into the school she wanted and is appealing her admission. She is such a bright, determined, and talented young lady. I hope I can help her.
     Oh! When I was at school on Saturday, one of the moms gave me a FREE ($5) ticket to the Pancake Dinner Fundraiser for Boy Scouts. Pancakes at 4pm? I'm in! It was really neat to see students out of the school element. The boys were so gentlemenly and well mannered. Of course, the first thing they noticed was my new hair color. That was another funny thing all week. "Miss Courchaine! Did you dye your hair..again?" "I really like it!" "I like you better blonde." "You look like Katy Perry." "You look like Flo from the insurance commercials." "Do we have a substitute?" I suppose when you encounter 400 kids, there's bound to be some conversation.
     Tomorrow evening, I am singing with the advanced parish choir for Stations of the Cross. I am really excited because I've ran rehearsals with this group, and they are all truly gifted. It will be so awesome to be a musician with other musicians. Sometimes, it's difficult to get back into the swing of singing/playing advanced music when I'm continuously singing 'Hickory Dickory Dock'. I have really tried to maintain my piano and voice skills though. Sometimes I will get caught up after school or lessons, just playing or singing material from college or before. I am thrilled for this opportunity tomorrow evening. Plus, it is such an easy way to get to church and worship. I always feel better after an hour session with the Higher Power.
     One other thing about my classes. I asked the junior high students, "Do any other teachers use technology in the classroom?" NO!! Well, actually, one student said a teacher uses the overhead. Let me just preface with this: My technology in my room is boogey. There are constant problems and quite often, these problems keep the lesson held up. However, there is no way I could ever teach without using technology. Even powerpoint. Youtube. This is so important! This is what students know and relate to. Next year, I will have my room set up properly(now that I know what I need). But for now, a few blips don't hurt. As much of a traditionalist as I am, there is NO WAY I couldn't use technology. So! If anyone would like to donate to my Music Class Mayhem fund, please feel free!
    On a different note, thank you again to all who read this blog. It keeps me writing. I love hearing your comments and support. Sometimes, I can't help writing about my personal life because it does affect my teaching, but I love and appreciate your patience. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.
    

february 2012

     Where do I start? I know it's been a while since I've written. Life never ceases to amaze me. It is incredible how things change in a moment. A second. How blessed we are to live this life. Yet, it is so complex, surprising, and humbling. This is what I know now: No matter what, we are not alone. Yet, no matter what, if we are not content with ourselves, we will always feel alone. I'm talking in a philosophical light I suppose, but that's just the way I've been thinking. I think about actions and experiences. I question their genuineness, and sometimes, I'm just not sure. I think, "How could I have been so wrong?" Or,  "Is it that I knew it wasn't right from the beginning but just didn't want to listen?" There is ALWAYS that voice inside ourselves, our gut instinct, our intuition, that gives us an immediate reaction. How difficult is it to listen to?? It is for me. Maybe I'm weak. Maybe I am not yet mature enough to handle my instinct. Maybe I'm just a hopeless optimist. This is yet to be determined....ok. enough soul writing. How does this mind set affect my teaching?
     There is a good and a bad...as always. The bad is that I am quick to 'snap'. It is hard to put myself in my student's shoes because I'm so wrapped up in my own head. The good is that I end up being extremely compassionate. I feel for my students and am able to bond with them in ways I have only dreamed of. One reason I wanted to be an educator is to build relationships with students. I've always hoped my students could trust me. Share their thoughts. Understand that THEY are not alone. In all the wackiness my life tends to lend, I know this is the person I want to be for them. These past 2 weeks have given me hope in trusting my gut. I've had amazing, intimate conversations with students. They have trusted me with their biggest fears. They have opened up. They have reiterated why I am in this position. I love my students for this. I love my profession for this. I am hopeful in my career. Maybe this hopefulness will bounce back into my personal life. I have to believe it will. Otherwise, I am becoming a nun...
     ok. That's a bit extreme. However, there is some truth to this feeling. After being in Chicago for 8 years, I've had a love/hate/love relationship with this city. I've dated, dated again, revisited, and dated. I'm a Wisconsin girl who has worked her ass off to get where she is. There are many women in this city that have done the same. Why are we still single?? I have a theory. I've written another article that I really think can get published. It deals with dating in Chicago. Dating in a big city. It deals with Chicago-meninitis. Yes, this is a term I've coined. Yes, it's cheesy(hence the Wisco girl). Yes, there is truth to my theory. Yes, I want to get this damn article published. I'm not saying what I have written is profound or 'new', but I know that other men and women can relate...at least that's what my friends tell me...and my mom. Anyways, since I've been single again(no it wasn't a long relationship, but very 'jump with both feet in'), I've been thinking and writing. Writing music. Writing articles. Writing a 3 part harmony arrangement of "The Star Spangled Banner"(see Jen Eberhardy). Writing all the time..well that's an exaggeration, but writing more than I have in 3 years. Rambling is not my fortay, but these are all issues that have caused me not to write on this blog. I was embarrassed. I was shocked. And I was pissed.
     However, I have regained composure. I am diving back into what I love the most. Music. I've written 2 new amazing songs and will be recording again. This is a work in progress, but progress is happening. I haven't even thought about recording for so long. Why!? Truth: I wasn't inspired. But! I am now. I am so excited to even have the opportunity to record and write and sing my own music and get back to another avenue that I've always loved/hated/loved. It's very cool to feel confident again in my writing and musical capabilities. Yes, my life experience has lent it's hand in this. But my passion for music and inspiring people will always be my gut instinct.
     I hope everyone who takes the time to read this post  knows how grateful I am. You have all inspired me to keep writing. To not give up. And to stay positive and motivated. Thank you.

Happy 2012!

     Is it really January in the Midwest? It was close to 50 degrees in Chicago again. Since I don't have any prior teaching experience, I can't say for sure if this weather is messing with the students, but I'm pretty sure it is. Or it could be the recent full moon that seemed to make everyone bonkers. Or it could be the fact that they've been on break for almost 2 weeks, probably playing video games, sleeping in, and not really having any responsibilities...coming back to school off a long break is brutal. The kids are so crazy and wound up. If I could only give them all a knock to the head and say, "HELLO!!! YOU ARE BACK AT SCHOOL!! THAT SHIT AIN'T GONNA FLY HERE!! GET IT TOGETHER MAN!! Of course, that type of punishment is illegal in Illinois ( whoever decided that was not in education...let me tell you) but I've tried to be patient and understand that the students need time to re-adjust.
     This week has already been a million times more productive than last. I've had fairly successful classes so far. However, tomorrow is my beloved 8th grade classes. I just don't understand what will motivate them. I've offered them a phenomenal field trip opportunity to a state-of-the-art studio, an opportunity to meet a sound engineer/producer who has Grammys, and a day off school!! How does this not get something to click in their head? Like, "Hey, all we need to do is learn part of 'Don't Stop Believing'? One of the greatest songs ever? That we begged to learn? Hell, I'll learn the song AND sing it while doing jumping jacks!!"
     FYI: They do not think this way. They would rather sit and 'mope' or goof off during warm-ups...warm-ups that 'allow' them to act goofy...it just does not make sense. I swear the day I meet someone who has figured out the adolescent mind, I will bend down, kiss their feet, and beg for insight.
     On the other hand, as much as I want to throw in the towel with this level, I just can't. I've been able to connect with every other grade. I have to figure out a way to connect with the 8th grade. They need me the most. After the debacle last week, I ended up completely changing my lesson plan on the spur of the moment. Once I gave them requirements for the summary they needed to write, they were fine. I don't want them to do 'busy work' all the time. I want them to sing damnit!!! Please hear me loud and clear when I say, if you have any suggestions, I am all ears!!
     Ok...so to give you something to chuckle at...yesterday was one of the toughest days this school year to get through...call it the full moon or pms or personal problems or lack of sleep or lack of nutrition...whatever the case, when lunchtime came, I locked myself in my room and sat there in the dark in silence praying that God would give me the strength to get through the afternoon. SO, my last classes were Kindergarten and 2nd grades. You may think these grades would be so simple and easy to teach. They are. If you are fine with stopping every 2 seconds to correct behavior or stop a kid from going on a random tangent about their dog or mom or the sidewalk outside and "why are there cracks in it"...blah blah blah. Trust me, it is the cutest thing but not when you are just trying to maintain your own sanity...so anyways, the first K class walks in, notices the movie screen is down, and immediately asks if we are watching videos. I had not necessarily planned on this...I hadn't planned on anything...but one student said something about watching videos from other countries. I'm not sure why, but you may refer to my previous statements about their randomness. A light went off in my head. "YES! We are listening and watching videos of music from other countries and your job is to listen, watch, and try to figure out what country this music is from!" By the way, I cannot take any credit for that idea at that time, God really does have angels watching over us...but it was brilliant! They LOVED it!! And I was surprised at how many countries they guessed correctly! Of course I did the exact thing with the 2nd grades and they also loved it!
     I feel like a schmuck for admitting that but sometimes in this profession, I'm learning that I need to listen to the students "small talk", consider it, and adapt their ideas/thoughts into my lessons. Oh! Back to the 8th grade, one student suggested I play techno music while they are walking in to 'pump them up'. I will be doing this tomorrow so stayed tuned to hear about that one! I will try again to get them to sing. Pray for us.
     The more I feel grounded in my faith, the more I am reassured and convinced that our higher power, God, is alive and well. He wants so much to be a part of our lives. He is always available, always willing to listen, and many times, he responds. This has become so apparent to me and I am so thankful that I have once again reaffirmed my faith. I encourage everyone who reads this blog (thank you) to reach out when you are having difficulties. When you think there is no one, there is. All you have to do is start talking (aka praying) and I promise your prayers will be answered in one way or another.
     My experience is that prayers are answered in the most beautiful ways. These last few days have once again shown me that we are not alone. EVER. I've realized many things through this past year: 1. We cannot accomplish anything alone. 2. If we do not want to change we won't. 3. I have the most amazing friends and family I could ever dream of.         4. People are truly compassionate even in this messed up world. 5. The things and people you surround yourself with have such a huge impact on who you are and will become.           6. My dad. I love him so much and cannot begin to describe how amazing and beautiful he is. 7. Each day is a new opportunity to change, grow, and learn. 8. This world truly is spectacular and full of opportunity. 9. True Love isn't dead. 10. Those of you who continue to follow my journey give me great encouragement even if we do not communicate regularly.Thank you.
    

Christmas Break!!

First of all, I'd like to say Happy Holidays to all and thank you so much for your support in reading this blog. I've had a few people ask me when I will post again: I appreciate the enthusiasm. It's been quite a hectic few weeks, that's for sure. I had a lovely Christmas in Wisconsin with my family, extended family, and DA PACK!
Prior to that, the last 2 weeks of school went as follows:
Call from Principal 2.5 weeks away from Christmas...excuse me..."Advent Prayer Service"..."Stacy, hi, just wanted to see how the music was coming. I'm getting phone calls from parents who are concerned that their child doesn't have their music for the play"...
Me: "Well, that's not true. I have picked out music and started working on it, but the other teachers are adamant on a few songs from last year that I don't have."
Him: "Well, you have to understand that this is a HUGE deal in our school and parish. Basically, everything stops for this program. So, if you need to cancel lessons and music classes, that's what you need to do." 
Me: "OK, well we have a rehearsal schedule and everything is going to be fabulous but I understand your concern."
Him: "Great! Just checking."
....The program WAS fabulous. If grades were learning harmony, playing instruments, or something more difficult than singing music in unison, I would've been worried. But the amazing thing about kids is that they soak everything up. First grade learned their songs within 2 class periods (60 min) total. Every grade did a phenomenal job. There were many compliments passed and I was so proud of my students! The older girls really stepped up and sounded the best I've heard them so far. We also acquired 2-3 more students for choir/glee club. Things really went well. However, there were lessons learned:
1. Start Christmas music before Thanksgiving (no matter how weird it seems)
2. Try to schedule WAY ahead of time (so people stay off my back)
3. Start music earlier=more difficult music!! (my goal for next year)
Everything in this position is a learning experience. That's why I love it. The students teach me so much and I only hope it's reciprocated. I've been planning the curriculum for the Spring and things seem like they are falling into place....in my head. Of course nothing in this job is set. It is a constant adaptation of elements. Again...a reason I love it. Another reason: being on break right now!!! It's the perfect time to rejuvenate, hang out with friends and family, and be merry!
I am really excited to spend NYE in Marathon with a certain dashing gentleman, my family, sister, and friends! How fun! I hope all of you have a wonderful new year and I promise to write more often!!

I'm done counting weeks

     This Friday was the end of the first trimester. I made it through one. It sure hasn't been a smooth ride. However, it has been extremely rewarding. I've learned so much and have somuch more to learn. Let me give you break-down of what's been going on:

5th and 6th grades are working on the "Soundtrack of Your Life" project. It's so funny. They pick 6 songs and write why they chose them. Then they make a CD case showcasing their songs. It's a really cool activity. It's really interesting to read why the students chose certain songs.

The 8th grade will begin the task of learning "Don't Stop Believing" this coming week. The arrangement I chose is NOT easy but it's the only one that actually sounds cool. If they don't get on the wagon with this, they will not be going on the field trip. It's that simple.

3rd and 4th grade started learning the recorder. The 3rd grade was so excited to actually have their very own instrument. They are pumped and so am I.

On Friday for my resource period, I only had the 3rd grade since 4th was on a field trip. We had a dance party. I put pandora.com on to the 'Britney Spears' station. Of course the songs that pop up are the songs they listen to on the radio. I only needed to skip a few of them. At the build up of a song by Rhianna, I went to the lights and flicked them like a 'club'. They LOVED it! They were all screaming and dancing around like maniacs. It was hilarious. Next purchase for my room will be a disco ball. They told their teachers it was the 'best Friday ever!!' It really was! So cute and fun.

I'm a little nervous about grades since I know I will be hearing from parents. Hopefully, I will be able to handle them with some sort of confidence and grace. We shall see.
     I am excited for Thanksgiving break. If you haven't figured out by now, teaching is NOT easy! I wouldn't trade it for the world though.

Today was a good day...

     After 3 weeks of 'break down after students leave' Tuesdays, today was finally a good day. I think 5th grade is finally on board.
     Today was the first day of  "Glee Club". Six 7th grade girls with beautiful voices. Our first song is
"Let It Be" by the Beatles. I am re-arranging the score a bit to accomodate 3 part harmony. So excited! None of the girls have sang 3 part harmony yet but they are very enthusiastic.
     Cute story: One of the glee members has a sister in 4th grade. She told me her sister has been practicing yoga everyday at home in the basement. She even has her brother doing it. Supposedly, this little girl opened a 'yoga studio' in her basement!! HOW AWESOME!
     Another cute story: I decorated my room as previously mentioned. After a few more purchases, my room was debuted today. The students love it! I went with the scary, spooky theme. Cobwebs everywhere, skulls (glitter, light up, big and small), tombstones, a body outline with a syringe and a brain next to it, black roses, and a heart organ...hahaha. It was so funny. The kindergarten didn't know what to think, poking and prodding everything, the middle grades thought it was cool, the older grades were enthralled. Student, "Miss Courchaine! You really love holidays!" Me, "I did all of this for you! Because I thought you might like it."
     You know, a lot of my students have been asking me a very interesting question, "Why did you give up your dream/performing to be a teacher HERE??" It's hard to explain to them how life works. How we are given many paths to choose. How our path is unique to each of us. It's hard to explain life to those who are just starting to live. I want to be clear. I did not in any way give up on my dream. I think I've accomplished quite a bit. I've recorded a CD of original music, performed in Chicago, have taught music to multiple ages, and hopefully inspired a few people along the way.
     I know I created this, but I know I did not accomplish it alone. I've always had the support of my family. Always. I love my family dearly. Each person is so unique and inspiring. I'm also blessed to have the best guardian angel a girl could ask for. Love you bro. 10/16/03

Halloween Extravaganza!!

     Because last week was SOO up and down, I did not feel the urge to write. Better to ride the wave...
This week in music is "HALLOWEEN EXTRAVAGANZA!!!!" What this means exactly, I'm not even sure. I just made it up to get the kids excited about Music and Halloween=Musicween??  Anyways, I decorated my room today. It's full of cobwebs...and spooky stuff. It should be fun. I have a large stash of candy and prizes for the winners of 'music bingo'. Not to say that there won't be some ass whooping in a few classes...
     First off, 5th grade. They're gettin' a shake-down tomorrow performed by the principal and myself. They need to be reminded of who is in charge and where they are. Business attire? I think I shall.