As increasingly fewer kids less and less kids read in their free time, I was interested to see what Montera’s English teachers had to say about the curriculum they teach.
Elijah Behar, an English teacher for eighth grade who’s been at Montera for six years, says the curriculum isn’t the best it could be for students.
Behar thinks the curriculum is good at developing argumentative writing skills, however he thinks students should read shorter texts to maintain their attention. He also believes that students should have more opportunities for creative writing.
Alejandra Martinez, an ELA teacher for seventh grade, thinks the curriculum has good books, however she wishes they were better catered to Montera’s students, saying that “literature should respect the landscape of the audience.”
Martinez wishes a book about social justice and action was added to the curriculum, stating “the more connected we are, the stronger we are.”
Both teachers say they don’t have much input in the curriculum. Behar said “I do not choose what books are selected.” Martinez says she has “not much” input, however can “choose the three books out of the four options they give me.”
Martinez describes OUSD as being “strict” with teachers adhering to the curriculum. Behar says he “gives students more opportunities for argumentative writing” than the curriculum.
Behar describes his experience teaching at Montera as having challenging and satisfying days. Martinez has liked her time at Montera, saying she can get whatever she asks for. Behar says he appreciates all the students “who show up and try to improve as thinkers and writers.”