Dear Nikki,
I believe going to Beverly Farm was an eye opening trip for everyone in the group. That reminds me a lot of my experience working at the Christian Science nursing home this summer. We were all amazed by the welcoming and loving atmosphere there. It was also sweet to see how our group was engaging with people [students?] there. For those who are considering working in special education, I think this was a great start.
I believe going to Beverly Farm was an eye opening trip for everyone in the group. That reminds me a lot of my experience working at the Christian Science nursing home this summer. We were all amazed by the welcoming and loving atmosphere there. It was also sweet to see how our group was engaging with people [students?] there. For those who are considering working in special education, I think this was a great start.
One thing that stood out to me was when Cody was asked how does she balance work and life. She said she has been coming to Beverly Farm all her life and sometimes she brings her son to work. It’s a job that she doesn’t mind. She also mentioned that before she started the marketing job, she went to work in different houses and really got to know people there first. That really inspired me. I believe the first job a teacher has to do is to get to know his/her students. Every student has his/her story and wants to be heard. Teaching should be built upon understanding and trust. To be a good teacher, one needs to be a good listener first.
I think everyone was overwhelmed by the love and joy those people expressed. It took us no time to notice how special this place is. The staff members are also light hearted, warm and open. The activity lady even had tears when she was telling us her story.
I notice the campus is huge and it provides home, work spaces, and learning and healing spaces for around 400 people. I wonder how do they manage that? Is it even possible to meet everyone’s need?
When Cody was talking and hugging the people there, she didn’t talk or act differently towards them. I wonder if that is also something we all need to learn as a Christian Scientist and teacher. Only when we look beyond the students’ appearances and behavior can we recognize that the Spirit and Soul each of us expresses doesn’t change under any circumstance. The qualities of each student are beyond his/her grade, race or family background.
I was very surprised that one of them even recognized me from 4 or 5 months ago. I realize their average mental age might be like 15 years old. But they pay more attention to people around them. That is such beautiful quality.
Thank you again for organizing this field trip. I hope next time this trip could include going to their classrooms and talking to the educators at Beverly Farm.
Much Love,
Jamie
9.12.15
Beverly Farm Website
http://www.beverlyfarm.org/
I think everyone was overwhelmed by the love and joy those people expressed. It took us no time to notice how special this place is. The staff members are also light hearted, warm and open. The activity lady even had tears when she was telling us her story.
I notice the campus is huge and it provides home, work spaces, and learning and healing spaces for around 400 people. I wonder how do they manage that? Is it even possible to meet everyone’s need?
When Cody was talking and hugging the people there, she didn’t talk or act differently towards them. I wonder if that is also something we all need to learn as a Christian Scientist and teacher. Only when we look beyond the students’ appearances and behavior can we recognize that the Spirit and Soul each of us expresses doesn’t change under any circumstance. The qualities of each student are beyond his/her grade, race or family background.
I was very surprised that one of them even recognized me from 4 or 5 months ago. I realize their average mental age might be like 15 years old. But they pay more attention to people around them. That is such beautiful quality.
Thank you again for organizing this field trip. I hope next time this trip could include going to their classrooms and talking to the educators at Beverly Farm.
Much Love,
Jamie
9.12.15
Beverly Farm Website
http://www.beverlyfarm.org/