Why Harlem Academy? Teacher Perspective

Teacher Perspective: Khari Barton

I came to Harlem Academy through the Public Allies program, a ten-month apprenticeship which places young leaders in non-profit organizations throughout New York City. Initially, I was most impressed with the growth potential-- for the school, the students, and me as a developing educator. I'm now in my third year as a full-time teacher, but my first day working at Harlem Academy confirmed that the potential I had anticipated was very real and my role leading team building and fitness activities was only a beginning.

I was soon asked to develop a chess program for the school. We started by learning the names and functions of each piece in structured lessons. I was soon able to introduce more complex areas of chess, using pieces as a team and visualizing opponent's next move. The students' excitement grew, and it was not long before chess was one of the most popular activities during free choice time.

Just as the chess program began taking-off, I recognized another opportunity to use a personal interest to further generate and develop a passion in our students. Through the support and counsel of Mr. Dotoli and other staff members, I developed a curriculum that uses Hip-Hop to develop literacy skills. The B.E.A.T. (Bridging Expression Academics and Technology) gives students a safe and encouraging space to create poems, songs, raps, and plays. Students not only learn to write, but also to expand their creative minds, strengthen their oratory skills, and increase self-confidence. Culminating activities use a variety of technologies for publishing work including word processing, audio recording, and video recording.

Whether students are putting me in checkmate, cooperatively writing a play, or recording original poems, they continue to amaze me. I am thoroughly impressed with their dedication and especially lucky that this school encourages development and implementation of innovative curricula and methods of learning. I see Harlem Academy as a place of unending potential where I continue to add to the richness of an already unique and beautiful place of learning.