Write in Love and Life

I think I over-shared with the dean who tried to bring a student back in to my classroom. I’m thankful to teach small classes because I, at least, can take the time to address these situations in the middle of my lesson.

The student in question has been playing with his phone since he was placed in my class from general ed a few weeks ago. He texts, listens to music, he even took a phone call once. I address it, but then I keep it moving because zero tolerance has really fallen off in my school, so I’m hesitant to start a battle I may have to give up. Other more respectful kids, at least try to hide it and them put it away when told. Anyhow, with this kid, this was not the day.

First off, he came in with a water bottle— great! It’s refreshing to see water as opposed to sugary drinks. I said, “good morning (insert name). He ignores my greeting and asks if he can put his water in my fridge as he walks across room towards fridge. Sigh. Now he’s also been ignoring my greetings since he’s arrived in my class. So I called to him several times before he answered and I explained to him two things: one, it’s polite to greet someone upon entering a room and it’s rude to ignore a greeting and two, you wait for an answer when you ask a question. And then he lied and said he said “good morning.” (I’m noticing a trend with this kind of lying.) I then gave him my answer which was “no.” I don’t mind putting an occasional drink or yogurt in my fridge, but his rudeness and entitlement rubbed me the wrong way.

So then I proceed with my lesson, and he started with his phone. It was making noise, so I said something. He said he didn’t know how to turn off the volume and people kept calling him. I wasn’t about to be entrapped by nonsense, so I told him to shut off his phone and learn how to use it at home. He wouldn’t, I headed towards phone to call dean and he walked out.

In the middle of my lesson, a dean and kid in question open my door. I motion for them to wait and say, I’d like to speak to him outside. I then explained situation and basically told the dean: “I have my lesson (as I waves the poetry pack in my hand), I look nice today (the dean looked at my outfit) and I have exhausted my patience with this phone situation (I gestured towards the student) I’m not dealing with this today.”

What I meant was: I didn’t just drag myself to work today. I came prepared and dressed like I care about what I do.

People often say I have the patience of
a saint, or they simply marvel at my patience in trying situations. However, I also run out of patience from time to time.

On that note, how many days until June 27th?

Today was crazy. I looked out my classroom door window and saw fire. A kid was playing with fire in the hallway. I called security and there was none. It was nearly dismissal and all were outside preparing the the kids who go here being dismissed and those who come to fight.

Thankfully the pyromaniac didn’t cause a serious fire, but I couldn’t help but be shaken. Where is my escape route? Half of my widows don’t open as it is. I guess I’d have to climb.

I don’t know if it’s the change of weather or what. Too much went on in this school building today. Little kids being arrested, just nonsense really. Too much.

Thankfully, I enjoyed the rest of my day— went to the dog park, got some sun and exercise, made a delicious dinner and had some drinks. Life is good. And tomorrow is another day.

Love.

There’s nothing like coming back to work after a five day hiatus.

Even if the classroom looks okay, there is always something amiss. My room is pretty clean, attendance was taken, plant watered but my nice pencils are missing. My thin red and thick black sharpies are missing. There is no loose-leaf paper in sight. My hard candy/mint stash is seriously depleted.

Ah well, it could be a lot worse. Plus I now have the opportunity to put out another three special pencils for my use only, color eraser tips and all.

As soon as I let my student in for first period, they all had so much to catch me up on. They’re sweet that way. From who was doing wrong, to what’s coming up next. One was like, “So now you’re going to be here for the rest of the year, right? Like every single day?” My answer, “yes.” What else is there to say in a situation like that?

Well, I gotta get back to work. So many papers to sort, copies to be made, lessons to plan and grades are due.

Love.

I’ve been having a nice vacation from work. I am in the middle of my five day assignment to grade the state ELA test. It’s my first time grading, and I must say it is interest to say the least. And of course, it’s very tedious and repetitive. But at least I like my table mates.

After “work” I met a friend for for tea and scones at harney & sons in the city. Everything was soo good! Will definitely be back with my kindle for more tea and tasty treats.

And now it’s time for a late dinner.

Love to all.

I like doing squats. I like that they challenge my entire body. I feel so strong when I work my legs.