Points of View is a project that enables students to utilize digital storytelling to document situational reenactments of issues that have made a significant impact on their lives. The viewer will relive these moments through the eyes of the story tellers, children, who will use digital cameras to capture either still or moving images. These stories are an on-going effort to promote digital citizenship and social action for students living in an urban school district.
"My students are a constant source of inspiration. They make me smile!"
- Mrs. Carlene Anderson
  Beisy: "If my teacher was my mother, then I would smile. I would smile because she is like my real mother. Whenever I think of my mom I smile. I smile because she is beautiful. When I think about myself, I also smile. Do you know why I smile whenever I think about myself? I smile because I am gorgeous! When I see my stepmom, I smile. I smile because she treats me like my mom treats me. Whenever I hug my dad, I smile. I smile because I pretend that I am hugging my mom."
  Iz'Jahmier: "When you smile, do yo like it? Well, when I smile, I do like it. I like it because I don't have to be in the shadows. I like to show my beauty and my passion. When I smile, I feel like I can't lose hope. I love to smile! You should too."
  Nine: "Wow, have you smiled lately? I have! I smile because my dad makes jokes. Also, I smile because my brother and sister are silly. I love smiling because my friends smile back at me."
  Jermaine: "Do you know why I smile? I smile because joy is inside of me. I smile because my family loves me. When my family members look at me, they make me smile. Another reason why I smile is because of my friends and teachers! Whenever I smile it is because of my beautiful life!."
  Riana: "I smile because it makes me look gorgeous. My smile is unique! I also smile because my mom wants me to smile, and she said I am a very pretty girl. I always smile whenever my mom, my brother, and I say jokes. Do you think I have a great smile? I think my smile is beautiful."
  Sandra: "Do you know what makes me smile? When I think of my friends, I smile. Also, I smile whenever I take a picture and whenever my teacher compliments me. I like to smile. Do you? Smiling is great for me and you!"
  Gabrielle: " Do you know why I smile? I smile whenever I am happy. I like to smile. Also, I smile because I want all the people that are around me to know that I am happy. I look cute whenever I smile. That's why I like to smile."
  Dennis: "I wonder why I smile? I smile when something is funny. I love to laugh! Another reason why I smile is to take a picture. Whenever something hits my funny bone, I laugh. Sometimes, I even laugh for no reason at all, but I try to hold it in."
  Michelle: "Do you know why I smile? I smile because of jokes, funny books, and when my mom hugs me. Jokes are funny. Funny books are hilarious! Whenever my mom hugs me, it's lovable. I'm proud of my smile. I'm special because of my smile. Do you like my smile?"
  Sha'Asia: "Wow, have you smiled lately? Well, I smile all the time. My sister and brother make me smile all the time. My life is always fun. School is fun to learn. I have many reasons to smile."

  Tiara: "Wow, have you ever smiled lately? Well, I smile with my friends. I like to smile because I look pretty. I love to smile! Do you like to smile? I think smiling is my favorite expression. Do you know I smile because I think about me having a big house and a nice car when I grow-up? I smile about a lot of things in my life. I am glad that I have a great smile."
  Tyrell: Wow! Have you smiled lately? I smile whenever I play with my friends. I love to smile! Whenever I smile, I feel grateful Do you know whenever I smile I think I like smiling? I would love to smile forever.

  Omariah: Do you like to smile? Well, I do! The only time I smile is when I am taking pictures, telling jokes, and when I get bit claps. I also smile because my smile is pretty. Also, when I take pictures, I feel nervous because I am happy.
  Heavyn: Do you know why I smile? I smile because my inner beauty comes out. When I smile, happiness is seen. You can show happiness with joy! Joy is all around. There are many different ways to smile. We can learn!

  Ayiana: Whenever I smile, I think of my sister. I smile because she is an angel. I smile because my brother is cute. I smile because my mom and dad give me whatever I want. I smile because my family and friends are funny, cool, lovable, and important!




Mrs. Anderson: "Smile! I ask myself, "Why do I smile as often as I do?" Well, I'll share a few reasons why I've smiled lately. The other day, Tiara brought in her homework folder with a note attached. Her mom explained that the dog ate her homework. While reading the note, I smiled. The bite marks in the paper tickled me.

Jermaine also brought a smile to my face. He insists on crooning during instruction time. Although I would rather reprimand him for interrupting my lesson, I took a glance into the future and imagine him singing before shouting fans. I smile!

My most recent source of amusement in class, was when Angel shared his method of forecasting the weather. He stated that it's more accurate to predict the weather by putting saliva on the tip of your finger and holding it up in the air to judge how the wind blows. He continued very convincingly that the direction of the wind will tell if there is going to be a storm. Isn't that hilarious?