I realize that I'm emotionally affected when a large group of my students don't do well in my class. I left the corporate world with a need to give back to youth in inner city neighborhoods. I spent ten years with the Urban League as Director of Technology and Programs. While working on a "Welfare to Work Grant" for several years I realize so many young people never get a chance because they don't take school serious.
Every year in my first level courses about 40%-60% of my students are failing during the first progress report. And every year it puts me in a funky mood. I spend as much time teaching about character and integrity as I do my subject and its frustrating to see such a high failure rate. Although I try to focus on the long term effects I have on my students, its still frustrating. With my class averages in my two first level classes at 43% and 51%, it simply a stark reminder of how far behind these students are academically and socially.
But I know there is light at the end of the tunnel, because my 2nd year classes are averaging in the high 70's and my advance students are in the low 80's. And by the end of the year about 80% of my first level students will eventually see the light and will pass and move on to my 2nd level classes. But it's still frustrating to have to teach so much about life before you can begin teaching your subject.
I am so glad to know there is someone else who goes through what I go through in school. I can relate to everything you said. I am in the process of posting grades for the first I think eight weeks and just as yourself I spend a majority of my time teaching social skills to my students. It gets frustrating at times but I forge on determined that something I say will have a positive impact on someone.
ReplyDeleteYour students are very fortunate to have a teacher like you who takes everthing to heart and cares so much. You are probably one of the few adults in their life who points them in the right direction. You may never know the great influence and impact you are having on these students. And then again you may hear from a select few students later in life after they have graduated. And that is the best reward of all. Just to know you made a difference! Just like the saying goes, "To teach is to touch a life forever". Hang tough, you are doing a fabulous job and reaching more students than you will ever know.
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