For those of you following the story of rookie teacher Andy Kwok as he makes his way through the school year at EXCEL High School (McClymonds),  there is a new installment in today’s Trib, as well as a two-minute video posted online.

Also: His blog, My First Year, has been expanded to include six beginning teachers from across the school district. The teachers hail from Westlake Middle School, West Oakland Middle School, Esperanza Academy, Alternative Learning Community, EnCompass Academy and East Oakland PRIDE.

You should check out their beautifully written and unflinchingly honest first postings. And, of course, you are welcome to share your stories, support and advice. I’m hoping My First Year will become a constructive forum for educators to exchange ideas and bits of wisdom. Even for non-educators, like myself, it’s a compelling read.