Locked in Lit

Stories from an English Teacher in Juvenile Detention

"You are not your worst moment."

Sharing unheard stories of the invisible children in our society: the kids behind bars. They exist, and their lives are a testament to the conversations we aren't having in this country, their narratives deemed unworthy of our collective attention. It's time to change that.

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Welcome to my blog. It is my hope that these stories, quotes and anecdotes will soften the hearts of those who read it. We live in a country where we have the opportunity to be who we want to be, but it is now my understanding – thanks to the hundreds of incredible young people I have had the privilege of teaching – that those opportunities are far out of reach for our country’s children whose brokenness was thrust upon them by circumstance.

I am humbled daily by their vulnerability. I am honored to educated them. I am blessed that as I make their world bigger, they do the same for mine.

These are their stories, I hope I can give them the justice and mercy they deserve in sharing them.

Accepted.

November 6, 2017

“The desire for more positive experience is itself a negative experience. And, paradoxically, the acceptance of one’s negative experience is itself a positive experience.” ― Mark Manson, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck It’s been a while, and there’s really no excuse. I created this platform to share stories, to be an advocate, to … More Accepted.

I didn’t think. Now, I know. (Here we go)

August 16, 2017

This will be challenging. Each day will have its own hardships. I knew that when I accepted my job. I knew that they would need affirmation, direction, structure and support. I knew that their relationships with education and society would be at best a struggle, at worst – completely shattered. I knew there would be … More I didn’t think. Now, I know. (Here we go)

Me Time.

May 8, 2017

Teaching – whatever your district, building and students may be – is a passion, a service, a gift to and for others. But in order to pour ourselves out, we must first fill ourselves up. … More Me Time.

Recommended Watch

One of the most powerful and informative documentaries, across the board. Not too long, and easily accessible!