I havn't posted yet about my new class this year. I just havn't found the words to describe them I guess. Had I posted about them the first week of school negativity would have been all too prevalent. The negativity is fading slightly, but I havn't come to terms that the school year really could be like this all year long. Usually the kids are quite timid the first day of school. New teacher, new students, new grownup surroundings in a classroom where more will inevitably be required. Was I in for a surprise. I barely survived the first day. The 35 fresh faces in front of me carried on like it was a ten year reunion. I was simply invisible to them. I actually told my principal that I wouldn't be coming back the next day. (in a half joking, half serious attitude) Never in my seven years of teaching had I experienced a first day quite like this.
While getting dressed and ready for my second day of school I had made up my mind that I would take no prisoners. I had to be somewhat congenial the first day. Day two would be a different story. I was ready for battle and needed to instill the fear. I even remember asking Tim if I looked like I was ready to battle before walking out of the house. I completely changed my tactics walking into the classroom. We would have no more frilly first week of school activities. Today would be reading, writing, math, science, history, etc. One right after the other. Believe it or not... I made some headway.
The beginning of the school year is always so difficult. I think I seem to forget that the kids are really still fourth graders and that it takes weeks of training to get them to the point that I just completed with my last class two short months ago. Really, beginnings of any kind are difficult. Things just take time to establish and grow. I have already been praying a lot more in my classroom in those moments of frustration. Maybe I'm the one that will grow through these kids. (Although I really don't see that being the moral at this point)
So I leave you with a tidbit of conversation in my day as the negativity wears off a little more.
Mrs. Romano: Student X did you remember to bring me your library card today? (I've been asking for the last 2 weeks)
Student X : No my parents and I aren't really big fans of the library.
Mrs. Romano: Well every time you don't have your card, your grade is dropping. So I hope you become a fan real quick.
Student Y: (In tears) Student Z called me a brat!
Mrs. Romano: Is this true Student Z?
Student Z: Yes, but Student Y said I was acting like a brat.
Mrs. Romano: (to Student Y) You know calling someone a brat and telling someone they are acting like a brat are the same thing.
Student Y: Oh they are? I didn't know that.
Mrs. Romano: (in my head) Ya right!
3 comments:
I remember you telling me this class has a reputation! Apparently they're living up to it! I love that kids library comment!
if anyone can straighten them out, you can!
Oh Debra..hang in there. I was thinking about you. You will do great with that class. You certainly have the touch.
Oh the beginning of the year blues! Hang in there! Remember it's nothing personal and look at the comedy of how ridiculous it is! Be patient, pray lots, and be okay with the fact that you might not change all of them. (That last part is hard...but oh so true.)
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