I think these stories are often too common amoung America's youth because of the way our schools lack the necessary man power to get to know students. I think if teachers who are in the profession for the right reasons would understand how important it is to be compassionate, caring and understanding of a students situation. I would hope with a Presidential election just months away our future in terms of education, economics and the future of America would now begin to take us back in time a litle to when poverty was not looked down upon but looked upon with understanding and care.

What is the web address for Ms. Klein's blog? I enjoyed hearing her speak at the Town Hall meeting with the Chancellor and Brian Lehrer last month.

And thank you for the change that makes it possible to comment directly to an article right on the same page.

Thank you for the important work you do, Laura and for sharing your experience with us. Every child deserves a peaceful, loving home and you see each day how that is often not a reality. The fact that they feel safe with you is a testament to your talent as a teacher. Keep up the great work and know you are appreciated.

We need to do the best we can do when our students are with us to make their lives as good as possible at those times. We can only control the time they are with us. i blogged about how I tried to impact my students' Christmas. http://photomatt7.wordpress.c...

My blog address is www.prelifenyc.blogspot.com.

Hi Laura,

I'm a television producer in New York City. Your story about "Sedina" moved me. I'd like to talk to you about doing a quality television movie about your experience.

Please contact me at: lejen@verizon.net

Best,

Lee

www.imdb.com

Provide a refuge at school for all children -- a place where children's developmental, emotional and physical needs are met. Developmentally appropriate, physically active curriculum -- the younger the child, teh more active the curriculum. Offer them time to roam the school library each week. Don't place heavy burdens of homework of 4, 5 and 6-year-olds, many of whom are coping with disasters at home while they try to grow. Heavy homework loads widen the achievement gap, they don't close it.