Service Learning

The third day is nearly over. Rainfall woke me today like children poking their parents at 4am on Christmas morning. The thick clouds hid the sun for most of the day, but the rest of the week is projected sunny with blue skies. Yesterday I ate two hard-boiled eggs for breakfast around 8am. By 10am my stomach Geronimo’d from minute to minute until I ate at 1pm. I eradicated yesterday by eating 2 eggs, a banana and packed an apple for a mid-morning snack.

We started today with a lecture about the history of the black culture in New Orleans and the lasting celebratory song and dance, which contributed to the evolution of Jazz. Dr. Mona Lisa Saloy led the lecture and began with a short documentary about the second line parade. During the film she began to snap her fingers, sway back and forth and hum along. She epitomizes the pride of New Orleanians, who cling to the historic culture that shines through today as strong as it did centuries ago. The citizens I’ve interacted here with are without a doubt the most appreciative of life.

Part of our trip is designed around service learning sites. I'm observing a charter school that has grown a grade a year for the last three. Next year 12th grade is planned, in hopes to graduate its first class. Class of 2012 is 35 students strong. The school found grants that allowed each 11th grade student an opportunity to take a SAT for free. Less than half participated.

I’m told if any rain, light or heavy, is projected the class day begins with the teachers calmly telling their students a rain storm is coming but a hurricane isn’t. At times when the lights flicker or thunder rattles the windows the children scream and cry.

When the storms of '05 hit the communities of New Orleans, the residents without financial capabilities to pack up and leave stayed. The local and state governments didn't provide public transportation for the poor communities and, therefore, without a choice but to stay and brave the storm. When the storms past numerous 9th Ward residents called 911 for help but were told officials were not responding to emergencies. One call stuck, "I'm in my attack and have children and the water is filling up fast." After the 911 respondent said she's sorry the caller replied..."Are we suppose to sit here and die." A remarkable film titled, "Trouble the Water" details the 9th Ward resident experience can be accessed here.

Back at the school, the teenage students are affected more consistently. Their mind is always occupied. They’re soft spoken and anxious. The disarrayed community is still as neglected today as they were 5 years ago. Some students attend to eat; some for shelter. It’s a horrible situation. I’m not sure if my two-week presence is able to make a lasting impression but I’ll sure give it hell.