At the same time, though, we are warned off because of limitations in our programs or within ourselves. Instructors must ask themselves if they are prepared to open the classroom to such issues, and, if so, are there appropriate resources available to refer students seeking assistance from social services. Using Push in the Classroom With these concerns on my mind, I cautiously began introducing students to sections of Push last summer. I felt that the book was too powerful and positively thought-provoking to ignore. I work in a G.E.D. class in west San Antonio, Texas.
Students bring a variety of histories to class.
Some have suffered extreme hardships and obstacles related to drugs, gangs, abusive relationships, and sometimes jail. They often enter isolated and understandably despondent. Others in class have had fewer barriers. Some have strong family support and have had only recent setbacks. Through creative cutting and pasting I was able to create an overhead of a section of the novel that recounts Precious's first day going to her pre-G.E.D. class.