blah
I haven’t been in an OD mood the past couple of days. Hasn’t been much to write about.
I am really struggling with my students lately. Yesterday was the worst day we have had in a long time. As a result, they were assigned a three paragraph paper on why it is important to show respect to and listen to their teacher (and other authority figures). They were also supposed to write a paragraph about how they were going to improve their behavior. Half of the class didn’t have the assignment done this morning! 
I realize that when a class has behavior problems, a huge chunk of that is the result of poor classroom management on the teacher’s part. So, even though I am upset with them, I am frustrated with myself too. My biggest problem is that I have a tough time being strict. I so desperately want the kids to feel good about themselves, and I think that sometimes hinders my ability to handle situations effectively. Long story short, I am discouraged. On the positive, they are having a really good behavior day today. I don’t understand how my feelings on teaching fourth grade can fluctuate so much. One day I love it, the next I am wondering how I am going to make it through the year. I miss my first graders. Several of them come in to see me every morning–is it bad that I just want to follow them down the hall to their classroom and teach them?!
Will is leading chapel at my school tomorrow. I am excited for all of the teachers to meet him. He and I have been working through some stuff over the past week. It’s too long and confusing to put in an entry (in fact I am still not sure that I fully understand everything). It wasn’t necessarily stuff with our relationship, but more the baggage that each of us brought with us, and the effects that is having on us now. Things are so different with him. In the past when I have liked a guy it’s been like 100% of my world was focused on him-even to the point of neglecting other aspects of my life. With Will I still very much have my own life, and although I think about him and care for him, it’s not like I am walking around on cloud nine all the time. That kind of scares me. Why am I not more ecstatic about having an AWESOME man in my life?
Alright…my kiddos are back from p.e.
Well I hope everything works out. RYN: What the Kitty isn’t cute too? 😉 It’s a PITA because I broke the needle that came with it so I’m using a regular sewing needle that has a sharp tip. ((Cross-stitching needles are rounded.))
Warning Comment
I can understand how you feel. Sometimes I think I am the WORST classroom manager. If I were you, I would stop and look at what works and what doesn’t. Find a system that you can deal with and doesn’t make you feel like a Nazi but that will get the point across. They’ll get the point but it will take time.
Warning Comment
That sucks that the kids are acting up. Part of it has to be at least some of the parents’ fault…I mean my parents would make sure I had all my work done when I was that young.
Warning Comment
I think you have been ecstatic…you’ve just got it in perspective more, I think.
Warning Comment
I actually think you’ve got a very healthy attitude towards Will. You should have your own life separate from each other – it’s healthier, and it makes the time you spend together more special. It also speaks volumes that you can talk as openly and honestly with each other as you do having known him so little time. That’s rare, and very special.
Warning Comment
It’s great that you have your own life, though. Being in a relationship shouldn’t consume every second of your day. Staying involved in other activities outside your SO makes the relationship stay healthy and strong! What do you do when your kids don’t hand in assignments like that? I was trying to think about a solution, but I just don’t know. Maybe send letters home to the parents?
Warning Comment