Mastery For All with Mr. James O'Neal
Mastery for all, empowered by equity for all, through the belief of expectations for all. This is the charge that James has in making sure that everyone involved in the schooling; students, teachers, parents, administration, will reach their level of mastery. James shares his expertise as a keynote speaker, national board certified math teacher, and a 14 year veteran in the space of education. James will have you crying, laughing, thinking, and most of all engaging those in your circle to reach mastery. His heart for all stakeholders in charge of empowering all youth is evident in his commitment and language. James knows the struggle that millions of students face as they strive for greatness in the education system. He has found success in loving students and pulling out the brilliance they already possess. To see videos and request booking please visit www.mrjamesoneal.com or email us at info@mrjamesoneal.com. FB/IG: @mr.jamesonealLI/TW: @mrjamesoneal
Mastery For All with Mr. James O'Neal
Teaching in the Fourth Most Dangerous City in America - S2 Ep4
In 2019, McKeesport, PA, was named the 4th most dangerous city in America of cities with more that 10,000 people, according to Alarms.org. I taught in this district for 7 years until 2015. Yes, this district had its challenges; however, the school, Founders' Hall, became an oasis for those kids and for us teachers because we were family!
Teaching here taught me a lot. It showed me that...
- Until you get to know the people of a place, you can't judge the place by what you hear in the news.
- All parents care about their children, even the poorer families.
- Mental health is a huge factor for children growing up in poverty.
- When you don't have a lot of resources, your mind is your greatest resource in the classroom, and it makes you a better teacher.
- As we say in McKeesport, I was "Port-Made"!
The experience I had from 2008-2015 will never be forgotten. It made me the teacher I am today, and I am proud of it. I learned that ALL kids want to learn, and if you show them that they can, they will work their behind off for you! I hope this podcast inspires you to continue to tear down stereotypes about black poor kids in the hood. #MasteryForAll
I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out info@mrjamesoneal.com