Music in the Halls

The Heart and Heartbreak of Teaching at a High-Poverty School in Washington, DC

By: Bernard Jankowski

Narrated by: Tom Pile

Through vignettes, essays, and poems, Music in the Halls reveals the inner workings of a high-poverty District of Columbia Public School. In it, Jankowski brings to light the visceral and emotional nature of childhood poverty and trauma and how it not only impacts a student’s ability to learn but also how it restricts their ability to live a full life.

Uncovering the interwoven worlds of children and their parents, teachers and administrators, and the DCPS bureaucracy—all residing in close proximity to the nation’s capitol—Music in the Halls is not simply a tale of hard knocks; it is an exploration of how one man’s understanding and compassion can be transformed and expanded to encompass and embrace this world.

©2023 Bernard Jankowski (P)2023 Scribd, Inc.

Candid, eye opening view into one DCPS school near the Southwest Waterfront

Bernard Jankowski, or Mr. J, as he was know at Amidon-Bowen Elementary School, lends a fascinating account of his 5 years teaching at this inner city school. His frustrations and joys are apparent as he learns to navigate both the DCPS processes, and the vast differences in cultural and societal norms than what he is accustomed to. His love for the students and teaching exudes throughout each chapter as he weaves together the patchwork of encounters and experiences that forged his time at Amidon-Bowen. As it should be, learning and teaching is a two way street and it is clear that Mr. J learned as much as he imparted. While it is well known that public schools have a multitude of problems, it is refreshing to know that dedicated teachers like Mr. J are in the trenches daily, working through the hardships and trying to ensure that all students have an opportunity to learn and thrive. I highly recommend this book to all!