Haven't been on in a while computer issues. Last year I didn't know if I would make it or not. My class was unruly, my personal life was a mess and I was broke. I pretty much felt like a failure in every aspect of my life. I hope the statute of limitations is up but one time last year a kid was driving me so crazy that I put him in the closet desk and all. When I realized that what I was doing was crazy, I told him to come back out and he refused saying that the closet was his office. I didn't know what to do so I just let him stay there the rest of the day. He finally came out when they called his bus. Also, I would hear other teachers gossiping about how chaotic my class was and I would not have admitted it at the time but it was hurtful not to have the respect of my peers and administration. That may give some idea of my teaching ability last year.
This year has been much different. We have had minimal discipline problems. The students are generally engaged, my principal has asked me what I did with the teacher from last year and even had me demonstrate lessons and classroom management techniques to the faculty. I'm not always pleased with my performance as a student but I'll have to say I don't know what I would have done without NTI.
Happy Thanksgiving
Hi Johnny,
ReplyDeleteYour post on the blog made my day. I could totally relate to it. I think we all feel like failures during our first year of teaching. You have a wonderful sense of humor, so maybe that's what helped get you through. When you tell these stories, it makes me want to laugh and cry at the same time. Honestly, have you ever considered becoming a stand-up comic or writing a book?
Thank you for sharing this. It is painful when you know people are talking about you, but you don't know how to fix it. I am so pleased that now they are saying good things about you (some may even be a little envious). Dr. J.
ReplyDeleteRock On Johnny!!! Its failure only when it doesnt get better! Its probably a good thing that most of us dont have a closet in our room because I can damn sure name a few that would have wound up it! Johnny, just remember that you are a good guy no matter what anyone says about you or your class.
ReplyDeleteI love hearing "Overcoming adversary stories." I wish I could be that honest with the world. You have my greatest admiration.
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