Hi, it’s Aisha. As you may remember from my previous story, I was not feeling comfortable at my middle school. The middle school admissions director called my old school to say that I appeared to be sad and was repeatedly late or absent. They were right I was sad. I felt no connection to the other students or teachers. I felt that this middle school had no idea of who I was or what I was feeling. They didn’t seem to understand Black children at all. The principal of my old school called my mom to inquire about the situation. Happy days-it was decided that I would return to my old school until the end of the semester. I continued to feel a bit conflicted. I was happy to be back at my old school, but I wanted to be with other seventh graders. My old teachers understood how I was feeling and they gave me seventh grade equivalent work. I worry about where I will go to school next year. I can not stay in grade school forever. The rest of the semester was comforting because it was familiar and almost everyone liked me.

The semester is over. I sang a solo, danced, led the choir, and played the drums at the annual Steppin’ Up ceremony. This ceremony is a rite of passage to launch us into the outer world. Once again it was a joyful and empowering time for me.

I had big plans for the summer. I’m going to circus camp and to a six week performing arts program. I eagerly anticipated my fun filled summer however my fear of the next school year lingers.

Summer is over……..

I have a new school assignment. This new school is a public school. I hope to find friends of many cultures. The first day greets me with a few students of color and several kids that I know from camp. So far so good.

I have been in school for two months now and I have not connected with many people. I know that my new school is nothing like my old one and that I must use what I have learned to make the best of my situation. I am hopeful that this will work out for me. I will give it my best effort.

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