A father in class

In previous years, we have had men in our class.  This year we have not--until the last month.  I had not been eager to call this gentleman.  He had listed a parole officer as a contact and it is sometimes a bit difficult to incorporate a lone male into the class.

However, L has been a delight.  He has been very open about his past and the years he has spent incarcerated.  And "incarcerated" is the word that is usually used by our students.  He said he never went to school past sixth grade and that he was first found guilty of a felony at age 14.  I think he said murder, but I didn't want to quiz him on that.  He has five children--so he must have spent some time on the outside over the years.  He has been out of prison for the last 8 months and has had trouble finding work.  He feels that if he gets a GED and gets some automotive training, he can at least go into business for himself.

L participates in class discussion.  He sings along at circle time even though his voice is the only male voice.  He is wonderful with his two year old son--who is also a delight.  And he is so much more aware of the world around us than most of the women in the class.  He has a good vocabulary and is learning more math every day.  Spelling is not his strongest skill but that should not hold him back.

I think about what a privilege we have to make a difference in his life.  I hope Family Literacy is a help in his turning his life around.  He has been a joy to us!