So it seems anytime I blog I turn into a big whiney, complaining baby. Whaaaa! Well who else better to possibly see into my psyche than someone who may see what I see?
I have been talking to my CTE supervisor for the past year and a half about trying to gather the teachers (at least all the CTE instructors because we have a lot) at my school together for some kind of camaraderie. All I hear is yeah we can go here we can go there I’ll take care of it. I..I….I. Uuuuhhh excuse me, I - ain’t cutting it. My point is the majority of the teachers at my school act like estranged spouses when passing in the halls. There are some cliques that travel in small flocks who either giggle like little Japanese school girls, or look like they want to lynch someone. We need solidarity at our school and I mean big time. Oh yeah there is a bit of fraternization going on too (well just one case that I know of) and I’m not talking the loyal brotherhood order of the elks.
Now I do have an acquaintance or two that I do things with here and there. I have a buddy that I go kayaking, biking and on an occasion have a beverage or two with. The other individual is my comrade in the educational endeavor who has been over for a cooking party here and there. Uh lets all think about who that could be for a moment could we?…………………………. Ok done.
So what make me think something is wrong with our staff you ask? My wife teaches at a high school across town and they seem to have some sort of kinship. I have been to a couple of impromptu school gatherings at Mexican & BBQ restaurants not to mention a couple of her coworker’s houses (and I’m talking teachers of different subjects here people). At these events the only thing I had in common with the others was that I taught. I got along with everyone brilliantly, even though these were people from another high school.
I wish we could all just get along. I don’t say that because I feel ostracized in any way. It’s just the opposite everyone wants to be my friend so they can get some food. I do say this because I notice a lot of factions that could come together and make our school something special. They just need a push in the right direction. Should I be the one to try?
I'd say, yes, go for it. Try to make in-roads with your colleagues to create a sense of community and fellowship. Since you are a culinary artist, perhaps food is your best means to igniting a sense of community in your school. Maybe you could start a dessert-of-the-month club, or start a walking club. I think you could be very influential within your school. It just might take some experimenting until you find the spark that gets things going.
ReplyDeleteDangthatboycanwritetoo...You got my vote. It blows my mind when you pass someone in the hall and all they do is stare at the floor.
ReplyDeleteIf some can't even tell a fellow teacher good morning how do you think a student feels,especially when that may be the only kind word they get in a day.
The next time we walk down the hall or even get on the elevator,look up and smile!
I am sorry to hear about that situation. I agree with Jessie. You might not get a very warm response at first. But I think a few teachers would recognize and welcome your efforts to create a sense of community. And I'm not trying to rub it in, but I am extremely fortunate for all the help and friendly attitudes of the teachers at my high school. The CTE teachers, occassionally, enjoy breakfast together or a cold one after school.
ReplyDeleteIt only takes a spark.....and you might just be the one spark called to get that fire going. Start small if need be. A birthday club....that's what we do. Get everyone's birthday that eats lunch when you do. Then bring in their favorite dessert. Sometimes we have to smile and bring joy even when those around us can't or won't do it. We had a teacher that would never smile and distanced herself from everyone. I just finally walked up to her and said, "you know, I don't mean to pry and it's certainly none of my business but you seem troubled and I am concerned. So if you ever need to talk I am here" About a week later she came and shared her story.... and what a story but it did lighten her load. Now she can "muster up" a smile every now and then and she will speak now. The moral of my story is: Don't wait for someone else to do it; if it needs to be done, you do it.
ReplyDeleteAnd who better to do it than the "host with the most".