Tony Danza's "Teach" Episode 1

A&E's television series, "Teach" follows Tony Danza as he begins his new and exciting adventure into the world of urban school teaching. After leaving his home in Malibu, Danza makes his way to the city of brotherly love, Philadelphia, to teach English at North East High School, where the drop out rate is nearly 50%. Throughout the episode, some of Tony's students are focused on as they discuss having Danza as a teacher as well as Tony's own thoughts regarding the challenge. From the very beginning of the series, it is clear that faculty, students, and parents are concerned that Danza is unqualified to be a 10th grade English teacher. It is helpful to see both the points of view of the students and the new teacher in order to truly understand how Tony plans on reaching his class and what his goals are for them. As Tony explains his reasons for teaching, his sincerity is heartfelt and real. He wants to educate young people and motivate them to make a difference, not only for themselves, but for the greater good of society. Watching Danza's first week on the job allows viewers to see how teachers prepare for a new class and all the work that goes into the art of teaching and of course, the art of learning. Later in the week, Tony Danza realizes he is doing too much talking and performing and not allowing the students to truly get involved as much as would be helpful to them. After hearing that he talks too much from fellow faculty, students and friends, he begins to realize it and starts to work on it, which shows the true idea of learning through teaching. Danza of course is attempting to teach a 10th grade class about English, and while doing so, he must learn about himself and his strong or weak points and correct what needs to be corrected in order to make the difference in the lives of students that he had hoped to make. One of the best words of advice Tony is given is from the Principal of North East High when she says, "Give them a chance" regarding the students. The idea of giving the students a chance is one that should be carried throughout his career as a teacher and will allow him to be successful. If the students are not responding to what he is doing, he must change it up in order to reach them. In the end of the episode, Tony discusses how he has a lot to live up to and is worried. He often wonders if he made a mistake by taking on the challenge of teaching high school english and doesnt want to let any of his students down. The best advice Tony Danza gives is when he relates what steps he will take to make himself a better teacher, "I am just going to put one foot in front of the other and see if I can get there." Although this quote is simple, it is so pertinent to the field of teaching, and even when learning can be helpful. Just take one thing at a time and work at it until you succeed.