Open Mic

I have looked at the postings of my classmates for several days now and I pondered upon what to write and then I pondered on how to express my thoughts in this post without sounding negative.  I actually like you guys and all of your different personalities, so I will speak freely in this post.  I have the same dilemma as many of the posts that I have read in regards to “TIME”.  It doesn’t seem to be enough “TIME” to do “ANYTHING!”  Where is the “TIME” that I was supposed to use for planning???  Most “TIMES” that period is taken up by something else that is required like responding to a poll or survey or taking some kind of test online or meeting with a parent or calling a parent or even my collaborative group meeting, and if not that, some kind of training.   When am I supposed to have “TIME” to actually plan or grade papers?   After school there is Faculty Meeting, or Tutorial or Group Sessions with the activity I have acquiesced to participate in with the students or another parent meeting or just having to read the numerous emails that I have received so that I don’t miss a due date or offer from someone that can benefit my program!  Don’t get me wrong.  I LOVE TEACHING and I LOVE THE STUDENTS!  They make me laugh every day because every day is different with them.  I LOVE watching them soak up information and ask questions because they are interested in what I am teaching or coming to find me during my “FREE TIME/PLANNING PERIOD” to talk about some kid issue, good or bad.  That is what I find most rewarding, but then I have to deal with the corporate and adult part of it all.  During my “PLANNING PERIOD” when I am on my way to “PLAN”,  I will see a co-worker who ultimately has a lot to say (in this profession there is always a lot to be said), as I try to back away (to go get work accomplished) they continue the conversation without giving me an opportunity to cut things short without seeming insensitive or self-centered.  For the most part I like my co-workers and the seasoned ones always want to give me advice or a heads up on information.  It’s worth it most times for me to stop and listen despite the fact that I am not planning or grading papers, but at the same time, I don’t like hurting anyone’s feelings and I must be careful not to make enemies because it’s not worth the fight or sabotage.  Before you know it, there is only 20 minutes or less left for (planning).  Now, what do I do about the show-offs I have to deal with?  I will be brief with this issue.  How is it that some people have time to participate in 15 different activities in addition to the required activities?  Do they have a life outside of work?  If so, how is that possible?  Some teachers have expressed that it’s a facade.  If that is true, that performance is over the top and who has time for that???  I just want to be stress free.   I want to have time to plan and do all of the other corporate requirements, enjoy teaching, enjoy the students, and enjoy the comrade of my co-workers.   Is that too much to ask for?  In the end isn’t it all for the kids???