Fires in the Bathroom - by Kathleen Cushman (Paperback)

About the Book

This invaluable guide to teaching teenagers features the uncensored advice of 40 students from three cities on how teachers can transcend the barriers of adolescent identity and culture to reach the diverse pupils in today's urban schools. Illustrations.

Book Synopsis

Since its initial publication in hardcover in 2003, Fires in the Bathroom has been through multiple printings and received the attention of teachers across the country. Now in paperback, Kathleen Cushman's groundbreaking book offers original insights into teaching teenagers in today's hard-pressed urban high schools from the point of view of the students themselves. It speaks to both new and established teachers, giving them firsthand information about who their students are and what they need to succeed.

Students from across the country contributed perceptive and pragmatic answers to questions of how teachers can transcend the barriers of adolescent identity and culture to reach the diverse student body in today's urban schools. With the fresh and often surprising perspectives of youth, they tackle tough issues such as increasing engagement and motivation, teaching difficult academic material, reaching English-language learners, and creating a classroom culture where respect and success go hand in hand.

Review Quotes

"In Fires in the Bathroom. . . students turn the tables on adults, and tell them how to do their jobs."
--New York Times

"An important book . . . a powerful critique of American teaching . . . Fires in the Bathroom should find a place in any professional development library. . . The student voices give its advice . . . an authenticity and a sincerity that advice books for teachers often lack . . . A powerful and compelling document . . . A major contribution."
--Teachers College Record

"Fires in the Bathroom doles out practical advice . . . [in] an unusual . . . effort to tap the opinions of American high school students . . . Students get a rare opportunity to voice their opinions about what works and what doesn't."
--Los Angeles Times

"This book turns the student-teacher relationship upside down . . . Suggests ways to deepen the unspoken bond between students and teachers."
--Chicago Tribune, Editor's Choice

"This chance to hear the authentic voice of students . . . should not be overlooked by anyone involved in teen education."
--Publishers Weekly

"Thoughtful and articulate . . . offer[s] insights about a range of school-related subjects, including classroom behavior, student motivation, and learning style."
--Teacher Magazine

"Fires in the Bathroom is a must for everyone concerned about our children and our schools . . . A wealth of information that can be put to immediate use . . . Treat yourself to this powerful new tool!"
--Connections Magazine

About the Author

Kathleen Cushman is the author of Fires in the Middle School Bathroom(The New Press). As a writer for What Kids Can Do, Inc., a national nonprofit organization, she works to bring forward the voices of student writers around the nation.She lives in New York City.