Kristyna Faz #5

Blake Academy Reflection 2

While reading this chapter I had some connections to some of my students particularly to
student that is currently in my class. He was retained in first grade. He is currently going through
the process to be tested for special education, in reading, writing and math. He is reading at a end
of kindergarten level and at that same level in math. Although he doesnt have as violent
behavior as Blake, he does act out. He often struggles to understand even when the work is
modified. His behaviors are to avoid the work, which leads to a lot of off task behaviors and
frequent redirection. He is aware of his struggles as he often shuts down when he is getting
one on one.
After reading this chapter, it made me be more aware of how all children feel when they are
struggling in a particular area or like Blake or my student, in all areas. I felt very sad for Blake
and it also made me more aware for how the students home life comes into play. In reading the
chapter, Blake had a hard life, to the point that he was even kicked out. This only added to his
struggles. This makes me further reflect on my student and also thinking about how his family
life is unstable. It makes me wonder about his future. I will continue to support my students and
use best practice which includes modifying and accommodating even if the students is not
identified, as a student with a learning disability. I feel that has helped with students that
sometimes, later get identified.
One question I had is do schools like Blake Academy still exist or is it more inclusion all over
the U.S.A? In my eight years of teaching, I have always taught in inclusion classroom and this is
the norm for me.