CIDRE Portfolio
Sixth-grade Social Studies Teacher at Gravelly Hill Middle School, T.O.Y. 2020-2021, PBIS Chair, Equity, MTSS, and School Improvement Plan Data Team Member.
I applied for CIDRE because I believe in being a lifelong learner in order to be a more effective educator. The CIDRE program includes several of my passions, including CRT, travel, and developing an engaging curriculum. I am especially excited to develop my practical application of a CRT framework in my classroom with concrete methods post-trip.
Written Reflections:
Reflection on the German Education System:
“Germany” details the German education system ranging from Pre-school to Universitaten/Fachhochschulen, informing the reader of the age ranges of each section of primary and secondary schooling. One pattern that emerges from this reading is that there seem to be several choices for students in the school system, ranging from vocational to professional to various levels of academics. The article reads as though tracking begins early, with families making choices from primary through secondary school as to what focus and level of rigor they want their student(s) to experience. A second pattern seems to be that students have to test and maintain academic standards to be accepted into and remain in certain schools.
The article continues to distinguish between public and private schooling options and the financial responsibilities of the Federal State, Land, and parents when it comes to funding education, school supplies, and more. The statistics offered indicate that the overwhelming majority of German students attend public institutions of learning.
The German school system seems to offer a wide variety of success options for students, and I wonder how this plays out in reality within the context of a wider societal structure. Are students well-equipped in a wide variety of vocational and academic training that prepares them for fulfilling a livable-wage role in society post-graduation? Does this "early tracking" system exacerbate current inequities between groups of people?
Additionally, does the lack of a federal authority over education in the sixteen Lander lead individual communities to effectively serve their populations on a small-scale or does this structure allow marginalized communities to be overlooked and unprotected by a larger federal system?
“Teacher Education in Germany” informs the reader of the requirements to become a licensed teacher in one of the 16 German Lander. Teachers must complete a certain number of years of university education, depending on the level of education one intends to teach. The training teachers must undergo includes two phases, the first of which includes university students in at least two subjects, the study of educational theory and psychology, and work in schools. The second phase includes a two-year training at a school while being paid a salary. Finally, the teacher must compose a paper and pass a variety of exams.
Currently, there is a movement to improve the training of potential teachers to bolster and synchronize the university support to the practical work, to add more work in schools, and to develop a common core curriculum standard to be shared among the 16 Lander.
The comparison of the German to the U.S. teacher training process is vast. The opportunities for teachers educated in Germany education requirements for teachers in Germany mandate more time and offer more practical application opportunities than in the U.S. I am curious about whether this additional preparedness translates to teaching being a more sustainable and long-lasting career than often happens to teaching populations in the U.S.
While examining the text and images of primary documents in the NS-Dokumentationzentrum, I noticed the cover of a German book jacket published in 1932, titled, The Unknown Hitler. The image portrays Hitler in a suit and hat, sitting outside with a dog. Upon reading more in the museum, I learned that "visual propaganda" was an instrumental tool for Hitler in gaining support, and he strategically selected his photographer to portray him in a flattering light. The photograph shown is quite relatable, as many people enjoy relaxing in the outdoors with their pets. The image makes the subject seem approachable and humanizes someone who otherwise portrays himself as superior in power.
This artifact of fascist propaganda sparks questions - how effective was visual propganda (in the form of photography) in gaining support as opposed to oppressive policies or the use of military/weapons to enforce control? Elsewhere in the museum were more examples of visual propaganda in the form of posters portraying racist images of the various groups that Hitler sought to oppress.
During this same time period (1932 - 1933), Hilter's image made the cover of U.S. Time Magazine multiple times. While the content inside might not have been supportive of Hitler, the front covers in no way depicted him in an unflattering light. He was depicted from the waist up, sitting or talking in his Nazi uniform. It was not until 1945 that Hitler's face appeared on the cover of Time magazine with a red X marked across his face.
The Deutsches Museum houses a collection of German Time Magazine covers from 2016-2019 that includes depictions of then-U.S. President Donald Trump. The images compare Trump to a child having a tantrum, a powerful narcissist, and most strikingly, a Ku Klux Klan member (a terrorist organization with strong historical and value ties to the Nazi regime). During the same years in the U.S., Donald Trump was portrayed as Time's "Person of the Year" (2016), and then slightly admonished with an image of Trump leaning against the crumbling Washington Monument.
I found it compelling that during the Nazi regime, the US chapter of Time Magazine was less visually critical of Hitler than the German chapter of Time Magazine was during Trump's time in office. At a surface level, it appears as though German journalists (and residents in general) could be more perceptive and critical of politicians who enact dangerous policies toward marginalized communities. My first assumption of causation would be because German's history of the Nazi regime could lead contemporary citizens to be more politically astute and aware of the dangers imposed by people in power. However, the U.S. also has a history of genocide of indigenous communities. Could it be, then, that the German education system and general culture are less tolerant than the U.S. of absolute power? Of racist policies? If so, what material pedagogy and infrastructural practices have been set in place to guide a culture into a more politically critical one? How can the U.S. adopt these best practices to develop generations of people that are more aware of historical and contemporary policies of racism and a critical lens of power?
Marienplatz
As global citizens and locals alike approach Marienplatz, they can hear the bustle of the crowd before they even see the towers of the monumental structures that crest the surrounding buildings. Like many European city centers, patrons of Marienplatz can enjoy a beer outside with old and new friends, find new trends in stylish fashion boutiques, and snag a souvenir for a loved one from a toy store. Unique to Marienplatz, however, is the historically significant architectural and artistic contributions that abound in the square. The architecture and art of Marienplatz reveal an important history of Munich if one knows how to "read" the story embedded in the square.
Like today, the original patrons of the market (prior to it being named Marienplatz) were able to find food to enjoy. "Eggs, flour, wine...and fish" (Mueunchen.de) were staples that were bought and sold at this location, where few roads met. Over time, the market transitioned into a center with a high number of heavily-trafficked roads. In the late 20th century, the city center was redesigned to reduce vehicular passage and make the location easily accessible to pedestrians. Today, visitors to Marienplatz can once again enjoy culinary treats. The city center was officially dubbed Marienplatz in 1854, in gratitude to the Virgin Mary after the city had survived a cholera epidemic (Simply Munich).
Towering over the surrounding buildings, the New Town Hall is the structure that initially draws attention from its imposing and impressive architecture. The Neo-Gothic style hall, completed in 1905, boasts tall towers, crosses, sculptures, and scenes that honor figures from both biblical and folk stories. With the varied placement of its features, the design creates a contrast of light and shadow that continues to shift with the placement of the sun in the sky. At the center of the New Town Hall is the Glockenspiel, a clock placed above two levels of figurines that rotate two to three specific times a day. The top level shows a horserace that occurred during the 1568 wedding of Duke Wilhelm V and Renata of Lorraine. The lower level depicts the Schafflertanz, which was performed during a celebration of the survival of a plague in 1517. (Munich Tourist Info) Crowds stop in awe as history comes to life in the New Town Hall! The hall does not only preserve history but serves as a functional part of the Bavarian government today. Over six hundred people work in the New Town Hall, where many governmental decisions are made and implemented.
The Old Town Hall remains standing in Marienplatz after being partially reconstructed after damage sustained during World War II. Although government offices are no longer located in this hall, it remains a vital part of Munich's history and culture today. Historically, the hall commemorates King Ludwig and Henry the Lion through statues. Relics of Bavarian leaders remain in the ballroom within the hall. Contemporarily, the hall has converted its lower portion into a Spielzeugmuseum. Visitors of all ages marvel at the toys of days gone by, bringing a fun history into modern times. (Meunchen.de)
Alongside the shops and the halls stands the oldest church in Munich, St. Peter's Church. Outside, visitors can admire the Gothic and Baroque architecture while listening to some of the oldest bells in the city. Inside, one can view art and sculptures that reflect the values of the history of Munich and the Catholic Church. The public can even climb around 300 steps to take in a view of Marienplatz and beyond from the top of the church!
Marienplatz today is a modern metropolis of shops, food, and social life. The interactive relics of history, from halls old and new and churches that open wide its doors, honor the history of Munich while teaching it to future generations. Marienplatz helps to create a collective memory that blends the past and present into the unique culture that Munich embodies today. (Muenchen.de)
Four WhatsApp Text Reflections, Cultural Insights from Particular Days of Trip (include related images as appropriate):
I have noticed several young children having a difficult time emotionally, with their adult(s) having stopped their transition from one place to another to stoop down, listen to the child, and speak patiently/kindly. The streets were crowded and bustling, so the patient pause stood out. The adults did not appear bothered or in a hurry. The practice came across as conscious/mindful caretaking.
I have been guilty of, and have observed, many caretakers in the U.S. trying to hurry a child experiencing a difficult moment out of the public eye rather than taking time to address age-appropriate emotional development issues when and where they occur.
Here, the person (in this case, the child) was prioritized over the destination or timing of arrival. I appreciated the patience offered to the children and the reminder to slow down/reprioritize focus at critical moments.
I've been working at a Biergarten in a botanical garden for awhile (it's been lovely). A server helped me initially (and was super helpful with the Wifi), but hasn't approached the table since, leaving me to reflect and learn without feeling guilty for taking up too much space or pressured to continue making purchases. Those around me are also taking their time, sitting in solitude or socializing for long periods even after their food/beverage is finished. I've noticed this pattern in several locations.
I wonder if here, it is a norm to enjoy long meals or socialize for extended periods of time, as opposed to the productivity parameters that are often placed on U.S. workers, which at many times cause us to cut our human connections short in favor of work.
In various towns outside of Munich that we've visited on this trip, the majority of homes seem to have blooming flower boxes. I imagine this requires a lot of maintenance. It makes me wonder if this intentional effort is a contribution to the idea of beautifying/preserving natural areas in Bavaria in general, as also evidenced by the many parks//green spaces within the city.
As I was browsing my pictures for patterns in society, I noticed a lot of physical activity (in action or institutional opportunities for activity). My photos show everyday walkers and bikers, as well as hikers, river surfers, and paddle boarders. I captured the finish line float for a race that was to take place at a summer festival. My photos are flooded with images of Olympic and soccer fields (or soccer gear or Lego soccer stadiums). The outdoor space in this city, for those who can access these opportunities, is moving.
Four Projects on Designated Cultural Theme:
Historically and contemporarily, how does the German government systemically implement reparations for the Holocaust?
Sources
April 1927, a vandalized synagogue in Munich, Germany. Yad Vashem. The World Holocaust Remembrance Center. (n.d.). Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.yadvashem.org/holocaust/this-month/april/1927.html#:~:text=On%20the%20Jewish%20holiday%20of,to%20be%20destroyed%20the%20Nazis.
Muenchen.de. (n.d.). Square for the victims of National Socialism. muenchen.de. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.muenchen.de/int/en/sights/attractions/platz-der-opfer-des-nationalsozialismus.html
NS Dokumentationszentrum, Munich, Germany
Ohel Jakob Synagogue: Simply Munich. Ohel Jakob Synagogue | simply Munich. (n.d.). Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.munich.travel/en/pois/urban-districts/ohel-jakob-synagoge
Stumble stones. Stadt Dachau. (n.d.). Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.dachau.de/en/tourism/concentration-camp-memorial-site/stumble-stones.html#:~:text=The%20Stumbling%20Stones%20are%20small,self%2Dchosen%20place%20of%20residence.
-, T. E. N. C., By, -, Correspondent, T. E. N., & here, P. enter your name. (2018, August 6). Munich introduces new Holocaust Remembrance Plaques. Travel.Earth. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://travel.earth/munich-new-holocaust-remembrance-plaques/
Traces of evil. Traces of Evil. (n.d.). Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.tracesofevil.com/
(www.dw.com), D. W. (n.d.). Germany: New Synagogue opens in Regensburg, 80 years after Nazi-led pogrom: DW: 27.02.2019. DW.COM. Retrieved July 18, 2022, from https://www.dw.com/en/germany-new-synagogue-opens-in-regensburg-80-years-after-nazi-led-pogrom/a-47715356
Reparation Through Collective Memory:
A map of memorials and physical commemorations to honor the victims of the Holocaust in Bavaria.
BioPoem
Featuring Sarah (who wanted to protect her real name). Sarah is a recipient of the financial reparations of the German government after she survived the Auschwitz and Bergen Belsen concentration camps.
Sources
Rosenthal, V., & Russel, S. (2021, February 18). Holocaust survivors receive German reparations to this day. Minnesota Council of Churches. Retrieved July 19, 2022, from http://www.mnchurches.org/blog/2021/02/18/holocaust-survivors-receive-german-reparations-day
Sources Cited
Bayerischer Landtag. (n.d.). Constitution of the free state of bavaria. Bayerisches Staatswappen, Link zur Startseite des Bayerischen Landtags. Retrieved July 25, 2022, from https://www.bayern.landtag.de/en/dokumente/rechtsgrundlagen/constitution-of-the-free-state-of-bavaria/
Caplan, R. B., & Caplan, P. by R. B. (2020, July 2). German police cadets and officers learn from their past. Yad Vashem. The World Holocaust Remembrance Center. Retrieved July 25, 2022, from https://www.yadvashem.org/blog/learning-from-their-past.html
historychannel. (2017, November 24). What happened at the Nuremberg Trials? | history. YouTube. Retrieved July 25, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RsA6AdCRI-k
Holocaust survivors receive German reparations to this day. Minnesota Council of Churches. (2021, February 18). Retrieved July 25, 2022, from http://www.mnchurches.org/blog/2021/02/18/holocaust-survivors-receive-german-reparations-day
Stanley-Davis, C. (2022, July 18). Reparation through collective memory. ArcGIS StoryMaps. Retrieved July 25, 2022, from https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/625a8eb7184c479d93a05771bde741d3
ThinkLink of 360 Street Maps in NZ Dokumentationzentrum
The 360 map was created in the hallway of the NS Dokumentationzentrum that reflected the German government's reparation measures towards victims of the Holocaust post-WWII. Included in the ThingLink is a reflective exit ticket that prompts students to make historic and modern-day connections between the nations of Germany and the US.
Lesson Plan: