Educating Esmé: Diary of a Teacher's First Year

Educating Esmé is a diary account of Esmé Raji Codell's first year teaching at a Chicago public school. The book documents her unconventional classroom methods, including activities like doing the cha-cha during multiplication tables and roller-skating down hallways, along with performances with at-risk students in the library. The diary provides a teacher's perspective on classroom life while addressing challenges such as dealing with bureaucrats, gang members, abusive parents, and personal insecurities. The book includes a supplementary guide with approaches and strategies intended to assist new teachers. The work has been recognized by Publishers Weekly and Booklist, and is recommended for parents, new teachers, and experienced educators interested in public education.