No, the teacher shortage in Philly hasn't gotten that desperate, and Danza hasn't dropped out of showbiz. He's starring in the A&E reality show "Teach," which will be filmed at Northeast High School.
It's not quite as bizarre as it might sound.
- Danza will be co-teaching with a certified instructor.
- Students will not be assigned to his class—they must volunteer.
- He holds a bachelor's degree in history education from the University of Dubuque (IA).
- According to the PR, before he became an actor, Danza had wanted to be a teacher.
- District officials will view the "rough cut" of each episode and have the opportunity to object to footage.
And there are perks. The school district receives a fee of $3,500 per episode, and will be reimbursed for facilities expenses, personnel costs, and outside legal fees. Danza will also be involved with extracurricular activities, such as the prom and drama.
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter was quoted on The Philadelphia Inquirer's online site, philly.com, as saying the show will bring "positive attention" to the city and the district. For his part, Danza said he was "humbled, honored and so grateful that the City of Philadelphia has decided to let us try this. I have always wanted to teach, so this is a gift for me. I will work hard to make sure I don't let anyone down, especially the kids."
The show, if it does well enough to stay on the air, may offer interesting fodder for classroom discussions in your school. And, depending on the content, it could encourage people to consider the teaching profession.
- Should your school allow a TV show or movie to be filmed on your campus? What would the benefits be? The drawbacks? What kind of rules should the school make?
- What does this show say about a teacher's job? Do you think it will interest people in considering being a teacher? Why or why not?
- How does life at Northeast High compare to life in your school?
A British Web site, www.teachingenglish.org.uk, has ideas to offer about building a lesson around a sitcom that are adaptable to other types of TV shows.
