I knew I couldn’t escape it. I suppose today I actually had the opportunity to appreciate that I signed up for that union back in August. I just never expected the worst to happen.
I finally reached my breaking point and smacked a kid over the head.
WOAH! I’m totally kidding! Did you really think that I’m capable of beating a child? Never! But I did have a parent come in today, complaining of emotional wounds sustained by their child at my hand.
It has been my policy all year that if you are caught multiple times talking or looking at another student’s test, I will rip up your test and you will have to make it up the next day. I tell my students I don’t want to embarass them like that and how much I hate ripping up tests. They only need to focus on their own test for 30 minutes and they’re free and clear.
So far this year, I’ve only had to rip up maybe 6 tests. Most of the students understand and take it like the little hard rocks they are. Some get a little upset and pout, but they know they’ll get a second shot. Today, I ripped up one of my student’s tests after two warnings. 30 minutes later, I’m in a meeting with her mother, whom is speaking quite strongly in Spanish at my principal, who is then dictating to me. Basically, I disrespected her and embarassed her and that her daughter isn’t stupid.
I kept my cool and stated that it has been my policy as year and multipe students have faced similar consequences. I apologize if it made her feel uncomfortable and went about my way. But let me just say this. Her daughter shows up late to my class, screaming on most occassions. She rarely complete works, refuses to come in for extra help even after I required her to. Not to mention, she has failed every grading period. I’d definately say that her mother should have bigger worries.
So…I don’t comment, but know I’ve been keeping up. I couldn’t let this pass, though. I’m not saying every parent is like this, but there are a number of parents out there that would rather blame anyone else for the way their kids act out than to take a look at themselves and the family at home. No one should be exempt from the rules and their consequences, and I applaud you for sticking to your guns.