Being a teacher is a 8-3:30pm, 180 day/year job.
Being a mom is 24/7, 365.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 - Last day of school before winter break
MS calls at 11:28pm. She is in a bad situation and has to sneak out of her girlfriend's house before she gets in serious trouble. The busses have stopped running and she is 5+ miles from her house. I am in my car, 30 seconds away from my building when I turn around and go pick her up so she can get home safely. She apologizes profusely and assures me that she wouldn't have called if it wasn't a last resort. I tell her it's never a problem and I'm glad she called instead of attempting to walk home alone.
CM texts me at 11:56pm from an unfamiliar number. I broke up a fist fight between him and DR earlier in the evening when they were threatening to kill one another.
CM: Ms.Walker You Sleep This CM..
Me: No, I'm up - what's up?
CM: I Wanted To Say I Apologize For My Action Its Just That Im Going Tru Alot And Im Just Trying Keep Myself Going..
Me: Thank you - I understand things are really tough right now with your grandpa. I just don't want you to make some bad choices that are going to hurt you in the long run. You're too smart for that. I'm here to help you stay on track.
CM: Its Not Even With My Grandpa IThink My Aung Bout To Put ME out And My Mother Said ICant Come Back There..
Me: What?? Why is she going to put you out??
CM: Cause One Of Her Sons Told her That I Order aPorn Movie And Rearly In Here To Watch Tv And She Dont Belive That IDidnt Order It..
Me: Ugh that's so frustrating. Hopefully she doesn't put you out. If she does you’ll figure something out - don't worry.
CM: Ok Thanks Ms. Walker..
Me: Of course! Just keep doing the right thing. Get some rest - we can talk tomorrow. Good night!
Thursday, December 22, 2011 - Day 1 of Winter Break
DR calls at 12:10pm. He wanted to let me know he was going to the doctor about his knee as it was still hurting him. He also was sorry about getting into the fight the night before. He'll call me after he goes to the doctor.
DR calls at 3:01pm. It is hard to tell what is actually wrong with his knee based on what he is telling me. I think he has some form of tendonitis in his knee. The doctor is giving him a brace and he is not to practice until school resumes.
CH calls at 3:24pm. He asks if I'm still in town. Unfortunately, I left 4 hours earlier and am well on my way to my parents house for the holidays. He mentions that he is in need of a ride home, it is unclear where from. I tell him to try a few of the other teachers he is close with that are still in town. He apologized for bothering me on my break.
RB calls at 8:24pm. I missed the call as I was at dinner with my family. I text him back at 9:19pm.
Me: Hey - sorry I missed your call - is everything ok?
RB: I juss wanted tp know did you get a picture of me because i got in the game very late
Me: I did! I haven't uploaded them yet so I don't know how good they are. I'll try and get them on fbook by the weekend.
RB: Okay thanks
Friday, December 23, 2011 - Day 2 of Winter Break
CH calls at 6:58pm. He is borrowing a teacher's laptop over break to do his homework and needs an administrative password in order to download the necessary software. Unfortunately, I don't have the password. He apologizes for bothering me on my break. I tell him it's not a problem.
RB Facebook message:
RB: you gonna put them on today?
Me: probably later tonight
Saturday, December 24, 2011 - Christmas Eve - Day 3 of Winter Break
EE calls at 9:58pm. He wanted to wish me a Merry Christmas before anyone else. He was going to bed because he couldn't wait for the morning.
RB Facebook message:
RB: ms. walker can you put our pictures up please
MB Facebook message [MB reads on a Kindergarden level]:
MB: love you
Me: I love you too!!
MB: Wyd [translation: what you doing]
Me: Hanging out with my family. You?
Sunday, December 25, 2011 - Christmas Day - Day 4 of Winter Break
CC texts at 2:45am.
CC: Marry Christmas to you and your family and God Bless
CH texts at 3:48pm.
CH: Merry christimas ms.Walker
Me: Merry Christmas, C!
CH: What did you get
Me: Some books and t-shirts. What about you?
CH: Nothing
Me: What?? Well I'm happy to share mine with you. You might like some of the books I got.
CH: Okay
Me: Are you getting some rest?
CH: No
Me: No rest?? What have you been doing?
CH: Nothing
Me: :(
CH: Hahahahahaha
Monday, December 26, 2011 - Day 5 of Winter Break
The coach of the basketball team texts me at 6:26pm...
Coach: Happy holidays, can you let M know we have practice on wed at 10am.
Me: Happy Holidays to you as well. I'll let him know. Anyone else?
Coach: All of them that you speak to. I left messages with some of their parents. I have spoke with D already. I have 2 numbers for A, one of them is disconnected.
Me: Ok. I'll call a bunch of them. I'll put together a contact list for you as well.
RB calls at 9:45pm. I ignore the call because I'm watching a movie with my family. I text him.
Me: In the middle of a movie - I'll call you back after
RB: Okay
I text hwhen my movie is over.
Me: Out of my movie - you up?
RB: Yea.
I call RB and ask what's going on. He wanted to know if I was going to school the next day. I explain that I'm still at my parents house so I can't go to school then. He was disappointed. When I asked why he wanted to get into the school he explains that he left the grapes I bought him in my classroom fridge and he wanted them. I told him that when I'm back I'll check to see if they're good and bring them over if they are. Or he could have one of his coaches let him in after practice Wednesday and he could snag them. He liked that plan. He apologized for bothering me so late. "Oh, and one more thing. You lied - you still haven't put those pictures up." I knew he was right... and I promised to get them up the next day. "Aight - bet."
AR texts at 9:48pm.
AR: Mswalker can u call M nd tell him its practice wed nd thurs at 10
Me: Yeah I will
AR: By the way hos ur vacation going
Me: It's going very well - getting lots of sleep. How'a yours?
AR: Ite
Me: Staying out of trouble?
AR: Maybe
I send a Facebook message to 12 of the boys on the basketball team:
Hey guys,
You all have basketball practice on Wednesday (12/28) at 10am at [school]. I'm not friends with everyone on fbook so please pass along the message to those who aren't on this one. I'll call those of you who I have numbers for, but if I don't have your number could you please message it to me so I can give it to coach?
Hope you all had a great holiday!
Ms. Walker
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - Day 6 of Winter Break
DR calls at 1:39pm. He asks if I can let M know about practice. I told him that I already spoke to him and he'll be there. He tells me that he's with DO because his step mom had surgery. I speak to DO and ask how his step mom is doing - he doesn't know, the surgery was yesterday. I ask how his holiday has been and he said good. Staying out of trouble? "Of course, Ms. Walka!"
EE calls at 6:29pm. I miss the call because I am having dinner with my family. I call back after dinner and speak with JE about his holiday. EE was outside. EE called back and told me he had a great holiday and he wants to go back to school. He asked if I could come back to DC because he's bored. I told him I'd be back soon but school doesn't start for another week. He was sad. "Well, I'll just call you tomorrow then." Ok E.
CM calls at 7:13p and 7:15p from an unfamiliar number. I miss both calls because I was having dinner with my family. He also texted:
CM: Ms. Walker This C My Aunt Put Me Out..
Me: Where are you?
I call him back. He is on his way to his friend's house for the night. He's going to go to practice tomorrow but he doesn't know what to do after tonight. I reassure him that Coach can help him out until I'm back. I tell him we'll come up with a plan and everything will be ok - we'll find him a place to stay. He feels better but still sounds nervous. I ask why he was put out but he doesn't know. His aunt just told him to pack his bags. What about mom? "I can't go back there Ms. Walker... she's got some problems." I don't pressure him. I tell him to sit tight and call me after practice.
AR texts at 7:21pm.
AR: Ms.walker who do u inform that it was practice
Me: M, D, R, and D. D's phone was off so M is going to tell him about practice. C got put out so I'm trying to figure out where he is...
AR: Do u got a number I can call him off of
Me: Just talked to him - he's staying at his brother's for tonight. The number he called me from is____. He'll be at practice tomorrow.
AR: Iite thank u
Me: No prob. I texted G also.
DR calls at 9:43pm. "Ms. Walka! Who's better at basketball, me or DO?" "You're both good in your own way..." "She said we're both good in our own way! Ms. Walka, DO is trying to say he's better than me at basketball. How are we both good?" "You're a very good forward and he's a great shooting guard." "WHAT? SHOOTING GAURD! DO CAN'T MAKE A SHOT!" You can hear people yelling in the background, all parties involved are not happy with my answer... "DR, I'm going to go. I'm in the middle of a movie. We can talk about this tomorrow after practice." "Alright, Ms. Walker."
DC Facebook message:
DC: Hey Ms. Walker This Is DC On The Girls Basketball Teamm
Me: Hey D! How's your break going??
DC: Veryy Well
Me: Staying out of trouble? :)
DC: Trying To
Me: Haha that's good - did you have a good holiday?
DC: Yes What About You
Me: I've had a great vacation. I'm still up with my family - I've been sleeping a ton which is nice. Nothing too exciting. What have you been up to?
DC: Chill With My Friends Practicing Basketball
AT Facebook message:
AT: happy holidays
Me: Same to you A! Are you having a good break?
AT: yes but don't wanna go back.... r u
Me: Yeah having a great vacation. Thankfully we have a whole week until we're back.
AT: tuu...wat did u get 4 christmas even doe u grown
Me: I got some clothes and books. Grown ups get gifts too haha
AT: yea wateva u say...im on my new labtop now...clothes nd money 4 me
Me: a new laptop! Nice! What kind of comp is it?
AT: toshiba...i wear glasses now..i get my computer skin it soon
Me: Glasses? That's exciting - how are you liking them?
AT: i tried den on but i get my real 1a the friendly we get back
Me: Exciting It will be nice to be able to see clearly.
AT: hahahahahahahahahaa....i got my ears pieced 2 both
Me: Whaaaaat?? You're going to be a whole new person next week!
AT: a lil...new year new A...hahahaha...not really...watchu doin on dis late
Me: Watching TV and trying to be tired. I've been sleeping a lot which makes it had to sleep at night.
MB Facebook message [MB reads on a Kindergarden level]:
MB: heyyyy
Me: hey! how are you?
Wednesday, December 28, 2011- Day 7 of Winter Break
CM texts me at 4:45p from an unfamiliar number.
CM: Hey Ms.Walker This C..
Me: Hey! Where are you?
CM: Over My Borther House..
Me: That's good. He's letting you stay for a while?
CM: He Not Real Brother I him My Brother Cause We Grew Up Together And This Like the Only Tru Friend I got And AR..
Me: Oooh. Got it. How long are you able to stay with him?
CM: Not Long..
Me: I'm combing back Friday morning. You can't sleep over at my place - it could easily get my fired - but i can help find somewhere for you to say - what did Coach say?
CM: Nothing Imma Be Ok.
Me: Dude... Did you at least talk to him about it?
CM: Yes..
Me: And he didn't offer any ideas about what you can do?
CM: Only Thing Waas Do IWant Him to Talk to My Aunt.
Me: And you said...?
CM: No IReally Don't Care
Me: Well do you have a plan for the long term?
CM: Imma Figure One Out..
Me: Ok... Please keep me posted and let me know what I can do. If you don't have a plan by the time I get back we'll go with one I come up with, ok?
CM: Ok..
Me: Stay safe
CM: Ok..
EE calls at 5:07p. I miss the call but he leaves a voicemail. "Hi Ms. Walker. This is your lil man, E. I was jus seein' how your doin'. Call me back!"
DR calls at 8:37p. I missed the call because I was out to dinner with my parents.
DR calls at 8:39p. I pick up the phone as we walk out of the restaurant. DR asks if I've heard from DO. DO was supposed to be at his house by now and he's worried. Do I have his mother's phone number? I tell him that I'll give her a call and see if her number is working.
I call DO's Mom at 8:41p. No one answers. I leave a voicemail.
I call DR back at 8:42p. I tell him that I'll send messages out to both of his parents and call his step mom. I give him DO's mom's number so he can try as she likely won't pick up an out of state area-code. I tell him to call me if he hears anything.
I send DO's mom a Facebook message:
Me: Hey Ms. O, is D with you? DR called and said he was supposed to be at his house but hasn't shown up.
I text DO's Dad, Mr. W:
Me: Hey Mr. W - DR called and is concerned about where DO is since he was supposed to be at DR's house by now. Have you heard from DO?
Mr. W: Am about to go to my cousin house to c if he is there and u can call this number to c if he is home ___ ask for AW.
Me: Ok thanks - I'll let you know if I reach him.
I call AW at 8:49p. I ask how she is feeling, as she has just returned from the hospital from having surgery. We chat about the holiday for a few minutes. When I ask if she has hear from DO, she says she hasn't, and he probably went over to his cousin's house. I thank her and ask her to let me know if she hears from him as he is currently missing.
Ms. O Facebook message:
Ms. O: Yes he left about 30 mins ago he called me
DR calls at 9:38p. DR says he spoke with Ms. O and says that DO is on his way. I tell DR to let me know when he shows up.
I text Mr. W:
Me: DR spoke with Ms. O, she said he's on his way over there now.
Mr. W: ok thank u can u give me DR number so I can check to see have he got there in a little bit did he go to practice today
Me: His number is _____ and I haven't spoken with him yet so I'm not sure if he went to practice.
I text AR, one of the basketball players on DO's team:
Me: Hey did DO go to practice today?
AR: Yea
Me: Thanks
I text AW:
Me: He's on his way over there now. Sorry to bother you! Feel better!
AW: Thats ok tell him I'm home now i no he miss me <:)>
Me: Haha shall do!
DR calls at 10:21p. DO still has not shown up. He tried calling Ms. O but she's not answering.
I call Ms. O at 10:22p. She doesn't pick up.
I call DR back and tell him to keep me posted.
I send an Facebook message to Ms. O:
Me: DR said DO still hasn't shown up. Is there a number DR can reach him at?
Ms. O: I am about to call around now
DR calls at 10:56p. DO went to his cousin's house. He's going to get his basketball stuff from DR in the morning before practice. "You can go to sleep now, Ms. Walker." "Thanks, DR. Good night".
Thursday, December 29, 2011 - Day 8 of Winter Break
I call EE back at 2:34p. He's about to go play basketball with his brother. His cat almost got hit by a car. Thankfully it's ok. He's sorry that I have to go get a filling for a cavity. "Me too, little man. Me too."
CM texts me at 8:08pm.
CM: Ms. Walker You Think You Can Help Me Get My Clothes From My Aunt House.
Me: Did you come up witha long term plan for where you're going to live?
CM: Naw Do You Have A Option..
Me: If you don't have family or anyone you can stay with I'm thinking we should look into teen group homes or something like that. Or I can talk to your aunt.
CM: I Don't Want Nothing To Do With Them I Just Want My Clothes From Her House..
Me. Ok. Then I'm thinking we need to find a group home or something like that for you to live in. I'd take you in but I can't :( I'm leaving early tomorrow morning, I'll be back early afternoon. I can come and help you once I get back, ok?
CM: I Just Talk To My Aunt..
Me: You did or you want me to?
CM: I Did She Just CAll MY Brother Phone..
Me: And...?
CM: She Said She Felt Like She Was Wrong And I Can Come Back..
Me: That's great! How do you feel?
CM: Like I Wish School Can Hury Up and Be Fir I Can Get Away From All Of This Crazy Stuff..
Me: :( I understand. Only 3 more days! We can go grab lunch tomorrow if you want - I'll see if AR can come too. Cool?
CM: That's Sounds Nice,Can You Give Me AR Number..
Me: _____ He can only text though
CM: Oh So What Time You Coming Back..
Me: I leave at 6a. I should be back by noon. I can do lunch at 1p - that work?
CM: Yes..
Me: Ok. AR is coming. I'll pick you up first. I'll text when I'm on my way tomorrow, k?
CM: Yes The Address Is ______.
I text AR at 9:54p.
Me: Hey - I'm taking CM out to lunch tomorrow because he's had a rough week. Want to join?
AR: Wat time??
Me: Around 1p.
AR: Yea that's wat time yuh gohn pick me up
Me: Yeah - I'll text when I'm on my way
AR: OK kool
Friday, December 30, 2011 - Day 9 of Winter Break
CM calls from an unknown number at 12:35p. He tells me to call that number when I'm outside and not to text. I let him know that I'm on my way and I'll be there soon
I pick up CM and AR and take them out to an all-you-can-eat buffet for lunch (their choice). We talk about their break thus far and what they've been up to. I then make the mistake about asking about their New Year's Eve...
Me: So what are you guys doing for New Years Eve?
Both boys laugh... then realize that I actually wanted to know.
AR: Oh, you know... sitting at home, watching the ball drop, then going to bed.
CM: Yeah... that.
AR: We won't be hanging at a friend's house, drinking that Ciroc, and living it up or anything. What about you?
Me: .... yeah... Sitting at home, watching the ball drop, then going to bed.
AR: Oh aaiite, I see you Ms. Walker. You won't be drinking that Ciroc at a friend's house either? Okaaayyyy!
Me: Yeah, just be safe watching that ball drop.
CM: Yeah, you too, Ms. Walker.
They speak in code about some things and I don't try to listen. During lunch they comment on my food (I'm recently vegan) and how they can't believe I come to an all-you-can-eat buffet and just get a salad. They proceed to give me an education about what it means to be "hood rich" [read: the richest person in your hood] and what that looks like. I get worried that this is the big dream for them and AR reassures me...
AR: Naw, Ms. Walker. That's a dream, not the big dream.
Me: So what's the big dream?
AR: I'm going to be President.
Me: That's great! I'll vote for you.
AR: Yep, and the first thing I'm going to do is get rid of the South.
Me and CM burst out laughing.
AR: I'm not kidding! I'm going to tell everyone below 36-30 that they gotta get out. Go to Mexico or something.
AR hates the South, primarily because he's currently learning about the Antebellum South right now in his AP American History class. He proceeds to give me a mini history lesson about why the South is awful and the North should take over. This carries us into the car and our drive back. A song comes on by an artist called Lil Boosie and AR asks me a question.
AR: Ms. Walker, if you saw someone on the street who you know killed one of your manz, or wasn't even the one who did it but was a part of the crew of the guy who did it, what would you do?
Me: Hmmm. Well, I would probably be really angry. And call the police.
AR: Yeah, but what if the police don't do anything about it?
Me: That's tough. I honestly don't know what I would do. I would like to think I would be able to control myself but I just don't know. What I would want to do would definitely be different then what I actually would do.
AR: So you wouldn't go Lil Boosie on them?
Me: I don't know what that means...
Rumor has it that Lil Boosie's father and friend were killed, and then Lil Boosie went and killed 16 people. However, he was only charged for "1 body".
Me: So, AR, you're asking if I would go and kill 16 people if someone killed my father and friend?
AR: Yeah. Or would you even kill one person?
Me: No... I would not kill someone if they killed my father and friend. That would sink me to their level. I would not want to be like that person in any way, and if I murder someone, then I'm just like them. I'd want them to go to jail for life for what they did. That way they can feel a consequence for their actions. Plus, I really don't think my dad or friends would want me to kill anyone.
AR: Huh.... that's a good point... But what if they let him out of jail on parole or whatever?
This launches us into a conversation about jail politics. CM listens quietly. This is a sore subject as he mentioned to me early that "This town is starting to feel so empty... everyone is either dead or going to jail... it's like I don't know anyone anymore... I need to get out of here - start fresh."
I drop off AR first, then drop of CM, give him $20 so he can go to the movies, and tell him I'll see him tomorrow. He asked for SAT Prep books for Christmas, and who would I be to say no to that kind of request?
Saturday, December 31, 2011 - Day 10 of Winter Break
Call CM at 1:35p as I walk into Barnes & Noble. I let him know that I'm running a little behind but should be there soon. I call him back as I walk out of Barnes & Noble and ask if he has pens and a calculator so he can actually use the workbooks at home. He does not, so I tell him it will be a little longer so I can go to Staples. I pick up some supplies and drive over to CM's aunt's house. I drop of the SAT Prep books and supplies and tell him to be safe for New Year's.
JJ calls at 6:32p. He wanted to say hi, wish me a Happy New Year, and know if we still have gym class when we go back on Tuesday. I remind him the semester doesn't change until later in January, so yes we do. "Oh, ok then." We say goodbye and hang up.
Sunday, January 1, 2012 - Day 11 of Winter Break
JB texts at 12:07am.
JB: Happy NEW yeARS MS WALKER THIS IS JB
Me: Happy New Year, JB!!!!!!!
JB: Yew at home
Me: Not at the moment
JB: Oh what we doin for this year in school
Me: We'll talk about that at another time haha.
JB: Okay hahaha
CH calls at 12:12am. I miss it. I call him back at 12:20am. "Happy New Year, Ms. Walker!!" Happy New Year, CH. He proceeds to tell me how he met a celebrity that day, some music producer. "He said it costs 3 stacks [tranlslate: three thousand dollars] to get into the studio!" Yeah, it's expensive. Can we talk about this another time? "Sure. CT says Happy New Year, too!" Glad to know you guys are safe together. See you Tuesday! "Bye Ms. Walker!"
JJ texts me at 8:11pm.
JJ: ms. walker can you check with ms.s and check And see if she e-mail the maryland university paper for me
Me: Can it wait until Tuesday?
JJ: Yes
Monday, January 2, 2012 - Day 12 of Winter Break, Last day before school resumes
I call DT at 6:07pm. I ask how his break has been and if his finger is healed (he had surgery around Thanksgiving). He's ready to play basketball and is not entirely pumped about coming back to school. "Psych nah. I'm really bored Ms. Walker. You getting me in the morning?" I tell him I'll be there at 6:45a and will give him a wake up call at 6:15a - don't forget to keep the phone near him.
I call MD at 6:14pm. We talk about his break and he tells me how he's spent most of it at his cousin's house. He's stayed out of trouble and is ready to come back to school. I remind him I'll wake him up at 6:15a and pick him up at 6:45a.
I call DO at 6:18pm. I speak with his Stepmom for a few minutes about her holiday (it was good) and then talk to DO about his wake up call. He's gotta get up at at 5:45a so I can pick him up by 6:15a. "Ohhhhhh ugh... ok. Alright. I'll get up. But you should call the house... I probably won't hear my phone." Alright then, 5:45a on the house line.
I text AR at 6:20pm.
Me: Heya - I'll call you at 6a for a wake up call. Pick up is at 6:30a. Ok?
AR: Ite
Being a mom is 24/7, 365.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011 - Last day of school before winter break
MS calls at 11:28pm. She is in a bad situation and has to sneak out of her girlfriend's house before she gets in serious trouble. The busses have stopped running and she is 5+ miles from her house. I am in my car, 30 seconds away from my building when I turn around and go pick her up so she can get home safely. She apologizes profusely and assures me that she wouldn't have called if it wasn't a last resort. I tell her it's never a problem and I'm glad she called instead of attempting to walk home alone.
CM texts me at 11:56pm from an unfamiliar number. I broke up a fist fight between him and DR earlier in the evening when they were threatening to kill one another.
CM: Ms.Walker You Sleep This CM..
Me: No, I'm up - what's up?
CM: I Wanted To Say I Apologize For My Action Its Just That Im Going Tru Alot And Im Just Trying Keep Myself Going..
Me: Thank you - I understand things are really tough right now with your grandpa. I just don't want you to make some bad choices that are going to hurt you in the long run. You're too smart for that. I'm here to help you stay on track.
CM: Its Not Even With My Grandpa IThink My Aung Bout To Put ME out And My Mother Said ICant Come Back There..
Me: What?? Why is she going to put you out??
CM: Cause One Of Her Sons Told her That I Order aPorn Movie And Rearly In Here To Watch Tv And She Dont Belive That IDidnt Order It..
Me: Ugh that's so frustrating. Hopefully she doesn't put you out. If she does you’ll figure something out - don't worry.
CM: Ok Thanks Ms. Walker..
Me: Of course! Just keep doing the right thing. Get some rest - we can talk tomorrow. Good night!
Thursday, December 22, 2011 - Day 1 of Winter Break
DR calls at 12:10pm. He wanted to let me know he was going to the doctor about his knee as it was still hurting him. He also was sorry about getting into the fight the night before. He'll call me after he goes to the doctor.
DR calls at 3:01pm. It is hard to tell what is actually wrong with his knee based on what he is telling me. I think he has some form of tendonitis in his knee. The doctor is giving him a brace and he is not to practice until school resumes.
CH calls at 3:24pm. He asks if I'm still in town. Unfortunately, I left 4 hours earlier and am well on my way to my parents house for the holidays. He mentions that he is in need of a ride home, it is unclear where from. I tell him to try a few of the other teachers he is close with that are still in town. He apologized for bothering me on my break.
RB calls at 8:24pm. I missed the call as I was at dinner with my family. I text him back at 9:19pm.
Me: Hey - sorry I missed your call - is everything ok?
RB: I juss wanted tp know did you get a picture of me because i got in the game very late
Me: I did! I haven't uploaded them yet so I don't know how good they are. I'll try and get them on fbook by the weekend.
RB: Okay thanks
Friday, December 23, 2011 - Day 2 of Winter Break
CH calls at 6:58pm. He is borrowing a teacher's laptop over break to do his homework and needs an administrative password in order to download the necessary software. Unfortunately, I don't have the password. He apologizes for bothering me on my break. I tell him it's not a problem.
RB Facebook message:
RB: you gonna put them on today?
Me: probably later tonight
Saturday, December 24, 2011 - Christmas Eve - Day 3 of Winter Break
EE calls at 9:58pm. He wanted to wish me a Merry Christmas before anyone else. He was going to bed because he couldn't wait for the morning.
RB Facebook message:
RB: ms. walker can you put our pictures up please
MB Facebook message [MB reads on a Kindergarden level]:
MB: love you
Me: I love you too!!
MB: Wyd [translation: what you doing]
Me: Hanging out with my family. You?
Sunday, December 25, 2011 - Christmas Day - Day 4 of Winter Break
CC texts at 2:45am.
CC: Marry Christmas to you and your family and God Bless
CH texts at 3:48pm.
CH: Merry christimas ms.Walker
Me: Merry Christmas, C!
CH: What did you get
Me: Some books and t-shirts. What about you?
CH: Nothing
Me: What?? Well I'm happy to share mine with you. You might like some of the books I got.
CH: Okay
Me: Are you getting some rest?
CH: No
Me: No rest?? What have you been doing?
CH: Nothing
Me: :(
CH: Hahahahahaha
Monday, December 26, 2011 - Day 5 of Winter Break
The coach of the basketball team texts me at 6:26pm...
Coach: Happy holidays, can you let M know we have practice on wed at 10am.
Me: Happy Holidays to you as well. I'll let him know. Anyone else?
Coach: All of them that you speak to. I left messages with some of their parents. I have spoke with D already. I have 2 numbers for A, one of them is disconnected.
Me: Ok. I'll call a bunch of them. I'll put together a contact list for you as well.
RB calls at 9:45pm. I ignore the call because I'm watching a movie with my family. I text him.
Me: In the middle of a movie - I'll call you back after
RB: Okay
I text hwhen my movie is over.
Me: Out of my movie - you up?
RB: Yea.
I call RB and ask what's going on. He wanted to know if I was going to school the next day. I explain that I'm still at my parents house so I can't go to school then. He was disappointed. When I asked why he wanted to get into the school he explains that he left the grapes I bought him in my classroom fridge and he wanted them. I told him that when I'm back I'll check to see if they're good and bring them over if they are. Or he could have one of his coaches let him in after practice Wednesday and he could snag them. He liked that plan. He apologized for bothering me so late. "Oh, and one more thing. You lied - you still haven't put those pictures up." I knew he was right... and I promised to get them up the next day. "Aight - bet."
AR texts at 9:48pm.
AR: Mswalker can u call M nd tell him its practice wed nd thurs at 10
Me: Yeah I will
AR: By the way hos ur vacation going
Me: It's going very well - getting lots of sleep. How'a yours?
AR: Ite
Me: Staying out of trouble?
AR: Maybe
I send a Facebook message to 12 of the boys on the basketball team:
Hey guys,
You all have basketball practice on Wednesday (12/28) at 10am at [school]. I'm not friends with everyone on fbook so please pass along the message to those who aren't on this one. I'll call those of you who I have numbers for, but if I don't have your number could you please message it to me so I can give it to coach?
Hope you all had a great holiday!
Ms. Walker
Tuesday, December 27, 2011 - Day 6 of Winter Break
DR calls at 1:39pm. He asks if I can let M know about practice. I told him that I already spoke to him and he'll be there. He tells me that he's with DO because his step mom had surgery. I speak to DO and ask how his step mom is doing - he doesn't know, the surgery was yesterday. I ask how his holiday has been and he said good. Staying out of trouble? "Of course, Ms. Walka!"
EE calls at 6:29pm. I miss the call because I am having dinner with my family. I call back after dinner and speak with JE about his holiday. EE was outside. EE called back and told me he had a great holiday and he wants to go back to school. He asked if I could come back to DC because he's bored. I told him I'd be back soon but school doesn't start for another week. He was sad. "Well, I'll just call you tomorrow then." Ok E.
CM calls at 7:13p and 7:15p from an unfamiliar number. I miss both calls because I was having dinner with my family. He also texted:
CM: Ms. Walker This C My Aunt Put Me Out..
Me: Where are you?
I call him back. He is on his way to his friend's house for the night. He's going to go to practice tomorrow but he doesn't know what to do after tonight. I reassure him that Coach can help him out until I'm back. I tell him we'll come up with a plan and everything will be ok - we'll find him a place to stay. He feels better but still sounds nervous. I ask why he was put out but he doesn't know. His aunt just told him to pack his bags. What about mom? "I can't go back there Ms. Walker... she's got some problems." I don't pressure him. I tell him to sit tight and call me after practice.
AR texts at 7:21pm.
AR: Ms.walker who do u inform that it was practice
Me: M, D, R, and D. D's phone was off so M is going to tell him about practice. C got put out so I'm trying to figure out where he is...
AR: Do u got a number I can call him off of
Me: Just talked to him - he's staying at his brother's for tonight. The number he called me from is____. He'll be at practice tomorrow.
AR: Iite thank u
Me: No prob. I texted G also.
DR calls at 9:43pm. "Ms. Walka! Who's better at basketball, me or DO?" "You're both good in your own way..." "She said we're both good in our own way! Ms. Walka, DO is trying to say he's better than me at basketball. How are we both good?" "You're a very good forward and he's a great shooting guard." "WHAT? SHOOTING GAURD! DO CAN'T MAKE A SHOT!" You can hear people yelling in the background, all parties involved are not happy with my answer... "DR, I'm going to go. I'm in the middle of a movie. We can talk about this tomorrow after practice." "Alright, Ms. Walker."
DC Facebook message:
DC: Hey Ms. Walker This Is DC On The Girls Basketball Teamm
Me: Hey D! How's your break going??
DC: Veryy Well
Me: Staying out of trouble? :)
DC: Trying To
Me: Haha that's good - did you have a good holiday?
DC: Yes What About You
Me: I've had a great vacation. I'm still up with my family - I've been sleeping a ton which is nice. Nothing too exciting. What have you been up to?
DC: Chill With My Friends Practicing Basketball
AT Facebook message:
AT: happy holidays
Me: Same to you A! Are you having a good break?
AT: yes but don't wanna go back.... r u
Me: Yeah having a great vacation. Thankfully we have a whole week until we're back.
AT: tuu...wat did u get 4 christmas even doe u grown
Me: I got some clothes and books. Grown ups get gifts too haha
AT: yea wateva u say...im on my new labtop now...clothes nd money 4 me
Me: a new laptop! Nice! What kind of comp is it?
AT: toshiba...i wear glasses now..i get my computer skin it soon
Me: Glasses? That's exciting - how are you liking them?
AT: i tried den on but i get my real 1a the friendly we get back
Me: Exciting It will be nice to be able to see clearly.
AT: hahahahahahahahahaa....i got my ears pieced 2 both
Me: Whaaaaat?? You're going to be a whole new person next week!
AT: a lil...new year new A...hahahaha...not really...watchu doin on dis late
Me: Watching TV and trying to be tired. I've been sleeping a lot which makes it had to sleep at night.
MB Facebook message [MB reads on a Kindergarden level]:
MB: heyyyy
Me: hey! how are you?
Wednesday, December 28, 2011- Day 7 of Winter Break
CM texts me at 4:45p from an unfamiliar number.
CM: Hey Ms.Walker This C..
Me: Hey! Where are you?
CM: Over My Borther House..
Me: That's good. He's letting you stay for a while?
CM: He Not Real Brother I him My Brother Cause We Grew Up Together And This Like the Only Tru Friend I got And AR..
Me: Oooh. Got it. How long are you able to stay with him?
CM: Not Long..
Me: I'm combing back Friday morning. You can't sleep over at my place - it could easily get my fired - but i can help find somewhere for you to say - what did Coach say?
CM: Nothing Imma Be Ok.
Me: Dude... Did you at least talk to him about it?
CM: Yes..
Me: And he didn't offer any ideas about what you can do?
CM: Only Thing Waas Do IWant Him to Talk to My Aunt.
Me: And you said...?
CM: No IReally Don't Care
Me: Well do you have a plan for the long term?
CM: Imma Figure One Out..
Me: Ok... Please keep me posted and let me know what I can do. If you don't have a plan by the time I get back we'll go with one I come up with, ok?
CM: Ok..
Me: Stay safe
CM: Ok..
EE calls at 5:07p. I miss the call but he leaves a voicemail. "Hi Ms. Walker. This is your lil man, E. I was jus seein' how your doin'. Call me back!"
DR calls at 8:37p. I missed the call because I was out to dinner with my parents.
DR calls at 8:39p. I pick up the phone as we walk out of the restaurant. DR asks if I've heard from DO. DO was supposed to be at his house by now and he's worried. Do I have his mother's phone number? I tell him that I'll give her a call and see if her number is working.
I call DO's Mom at 8:41p. No one answers. I leave a voicemail.
I call DR back at 8:42p. I tell him that I'll send messages out to both of his parents and call his step mom. I give him DO's mom's number so he can try as she likely won't pick up an out of state area-code. I tell him to call me if he hears anything.
I send DO's mom a Facebook message:
Me: Hey Ms. O, is D with you? DR called and said he was supposed to be at his house but hasn't shown up.
I text DO's Dad, Mr. W:
Me: Hey Mr. W - DR called and is concerned about where DO is since he was supposed to be at DR's house by now. Have you heard from DO?
Mr. W: Am about to go to my cousin house to c if he is there and u can call this number to c if he is home ___ ask for AW.
Me: Ok thanks - I'll let you know if I reach him.
I call AW at 8:49p. I ask how she is feeling, as she has just returned from the hospital from having surgery. We chat about the holiday for a few minutes. When I ask if she has hear from DO, she says she hasn't, and he probably went over to his cousin's house. I thank her and ask her to let me know if she hears from him as he is currently missing.
Ms. O Facebook message:
Ms. O: Yes he left about 30 mins ago he called me
Me: Thank you!
DR calls at 9:38p. DR says he spoke with Ms. O and says that DO is on his way. I tell DR to let me know when he shows up.
I text Mr. W:
Me: DR spoke with Ms. O, she said he's on his way over there now.
Mr. W: ok thank u can u give me DR number so I can check to see have he got there in a little bit did he go to practice today
Me: His number is _____ and I haven't spoken with him yet so I'm not sure if he went to practice.
I text AR, one of the basketball players on DO's team:
Me: Hey did DO go to practice today?
AR: Yea
Me: Thanks
I text AW:
Me: He's on his way over there now. Sorry to bother you! Feel better!
AW: Thats ok tell him I'm home now i no he miss me <:)>
Me: Haha shall do!
DR calls at 10:21p. DO still has not shown up. He tried calling Ms. O but she's not answering.
I call Ms. O at 10:22p. She doesn't pick up.
I call DR back and tell him to keep me posted.
I send an Facebook message to Ms. O:
Me: DR said DO still hasn't shown up. Is there a number DR can reach him at?
Ms. O: I am about to call around now
DR calls at 10:56p. DO went to his cousin's house. He's going to get his basketball stuff from DR in the morning before practice. "You can go to sleep now, Ms. Walker." "Thanks, DR. Good night".
Thursday, December 29, 2011 - Day 8 of Winter Break
I call EE back at 2:34p. He's about to go play basketball with his brother. His cat almost got hit by a car. Thankfully it's ok. He's sorry that I have to go get a filling for a cavity. "Me too, little man. Me too."
CM texts me at 8:08pm.
CM: Ms. Walker You Think You Can Help Me Get My Clothes From My Aunt House.
Me: Did you come up witha long term plan for where you're going to live?
CM: Naw Do You Have A Option..
Me: If you don't have family or anyone you can stay with I'm thinking we should look into teen group homes or something like that. Or I can talk to your aunt.
CM: I Don't Want Nothing To Do With Them I Just Want My Clothes From Her House..
Me. Ok. Then I'm thinking we need to find a group home or something like that for you to live in. I'd take you in but I can't :( I'm leaving early tomorrow morning, I'll be back early afternoon. I can come and help you once I get back, ok?
CM: I Just Talk To My Aunt..
Me: You did or you want me to?
CM: I Did She Just CAll MY Brother Phone..
Me: And...?
CM: She Said She Felt Like She Was Wrong And I Can Come Back..
Me: That's great! How do you feel?
CM: Like I Wish School Can Hury Up and Be Fir I Can Get Away From All Of This Crazy Stuff..
Me: :( I understand. Only 3 more days! We can go grab lunch tomorrow if you want - I'll see if AR can come too. Cool?
CM: That's Sounds Nice,Can You Give Me AR Number..
Me: _____ He can only text though
CM: Oh So What Time You Coming Back..
Me: I leave at 6a. I should be back by noon. I can do lunch at 1p - that work?
CM: Yes..
Me: Ok. AR is coming. I'll pick you up first. I'll text when I'm on my way tomorrow, k?
CM: Yes The Address Is ______.
I text AR at 9:54p.
Me: Hey - I'm taking CM out to lunch tomorrow because he's had a rough week. Want to join?
AR: Wat time??
Me: Around 1p.
AR: Yea that's wat time yuh gohn pick me up
Me: Yeah - I'll text when I'm on my way
AR: OK kool
Friday, December 30, 2011 - Day 9 of Winter Break
CM calls from an unknown number at 12:35p. He tells me to call that number when I'm outside and not to text. I let him know that I'm on my way and I'll be there soon
I pick up CM and AR and take them out to an all-you-can-eat buffet for lunch (their choice). We talk about their break thus far and what they've been up to. I then make the mistake about asking about their New Year's Eve...
Me: So what are you guys doing for New Years Eve?
Both boys laugh... then realize that I actually wanted to know.
AR: Oh, you know... sitting at home, watching the ball drop, then going to bed.
CM: Yeah... that.
AR: We won't be hanging at a friend's house, drinking that Ciroc, and living it up or anything. What about you?
Me: .... yeah... Sitting at home, watching the ball drop, then going to bed.
AR: Oh aaiite, I see you Ms. Walker. You won't be drinking that Ciroc at a friend's house either? Okaaayyyy!
Me: Yeah, just be safe watching that ball drop.
CM: Yeah, you too, Ms. Walker.
They speak in code about some things and I don't try to listen. During lunch they comment on my food (I'm recently vegan) and how they can't believe I come to an all-you-can-eat buffet and just get a salad. They proceed to give me an education about what it means to be "hood rich" [read: the richest person in your hood] and what that looks like. I get worried that this is the big dream for them and AR reassures me...
AR: Naw, Ms. Walker. That's a dream, not the big dream.
Me: So what's the big dream?
AR: I'm going to be President.
Me: That's great! I'll vote for you.
AR: Yep, and the first thing I'm going to do is get rid of the South.
Me and CM burst out laughing.
AR: I'm not kidding! I'm going to tell everyone below 36-30 that they gotta get out. Go to Mexico or something.
AR hates the South, primarily because he's currently learning about the Antebellum South right now in his AP American History class. He proceeds to give me a mini history lesson about why the South is awful and the North should take over. This carries us into the car and our drive back. A song comes on by an artist called Lil Boosie and AR asks me a question.
AR: Ms. Walker, if you saw someone on the street who you know killed one of your manz, or wasn't even the one who did it but was a part of the crew of the guy who did it, what would you do?
Me: Hmmm. Well, I would probably be really angry. And call the police.
AR: Yeah, but what if the police don't do anything about it?
Me: That's tough. I honestly don't know what I would do. I would like to think I would be able to control myself but I just don't know. What I would want to do would definitely be different then what I actually would do.
AR: So you wouldn't go Lil Boosie on them?
Me: I don't know what that means...
Rumor has it that Lil Boosie's father and friend were killed, and then Lil Boosie went and killed 16 people. However, he was only charged for "1 body".
Me: So, AR, you're asking if I would go and kill 16 people if someone killed my father and friend?
AR: Yeah. Or would you even kill one person?
Me: No... I would not kill someone if they killed my father and friend. That would sink me to their level. I would not want to be like that person in any way, and if I murder someone, then I'm just like them. I'd want them to go to jail for life for what they did. That way they can feel a consequence for their actions. Plus, I really don't think my dad or friends would want me to kill anyone.
AR: Huh.... that's a good point... But what if they let him out of jail on parole or whatever?
This launches us into a conversation about jail politics. CM listens quietly. This is a sore subject as he mentioned to me early that "This town is starting to feel so empty... everyone is either dead or going to jail... it's like I don't know anyone anymore... I need to get out of here - start fresh."
I drop off AR first, then drop of CM, give him $20 so he can go to the movies, and tell him I'll see him tomorrow. He asked for SAT Prep books for Christmas, and who would I be to say no to that kind of request?
Saturday, December 31, 2011 - Day 10 of Winter Break
Call CM at 1:35p as I walk into Barnes & Noble. I let him know that I'm running a little behind but should be there soon. I call him back as I walk out of Barnes & Noble and ask if he has pens and a calculator so he can actually use the workbooks at home. He does not, so I tell him it will be a little longer so I can go to Staples. I pick up some supplies and drive over to CM's aunt's house. I drop of the SAT Prep books and supplies and tell him to be safe for New Year's.
JJ calls at 6:32p. He wanted to say hi, wish me a Happy New Year, and know if we still have gym class when we go back on Tuesday. I remind him the semester doesn't change until later in January, so yes we do. "Oh, ok then." We say goodbye and hang up.
Sunday, January 1, 2012 - Day 11 of Winter Break
JB texts at 12:07am.
JB: Happy NEW yeARS MS WALKER THIS IS JB
Me: Happy New Year, JB!!!!!!!
JB: Yew at home
Me: Not at the moment
JB: Oh what we doin for this year in school
Me: We'll talk about that at another time haha.
JB: Okay hahaha
CH calls at 12:12am. I miss it. I call him back at 12:20am. "Happy New Year, Ms. Walker!!" Happy New Year, CH. He proceeds to tell me how he met a celebrity that day, some music producer. "He said it costs 3 stacks [tranlslate: three thousand dollars] to get into the studio!" Yeah, it's expensive. Can we talk about this another time? "Sure. CT says Happy New Year, too!" Glad to know you guys are safe together. See you Tuesday! "Bye Ms. Walker!"
JJ texts me at 8:11pm.
JJ: ms. walker can you check with ms.s and check And see if she e-mail the maryland university paper for me
Me: Can it wait until Tuesday?
JJ: Yes
Monday, January 2, 2012 - Day 12 of Winter Break, Last day before school resumes
I call DT at 6:07pm. I ask how his break has been and if his finger is healed (he had surgery around Thanksgiving). He's ready to play basketball and is not entirely pumped about coming back to school. "Psych nah. I'm really bored Ms. Walker. You getting me in the morning?" I tell him I'll be there at 6:45a and will give him a wake up call at 6:15a - don't forget to keep the phone near him.
I call MD at 6:14pm. We talk about his break and he tells me how he's spent most of it at his cousin's house. He's stayed out of trouble and is ready to come back to school. I remind him I'll wake him up at 6:15a and pick him up at 6:45a.
I call DO at 6:18pm. I speak with his Stepmom for a few minutes about her holiday (it was good) and then talk to DO about his wake up call. He's gotta get up at at 5:45a so I can pick him up by 6:15a. "Ohhhhhh ugh... ok. Alright. I'll get up. But you should call the house... I probably won't hear my phone." Alright then, 5:45a on the house line.
I text AR at 6:20pm.
Me: Heya - I'll call you at 6a for a wake up call. Pick up is at 6:30a. Ok?
AR: Ite
