OMG, the first week is over, I still think they may fire me. My homeroom is craziness. And it's my fault, because I wasn't there, setting up routines the first day. So they don't mind me. Perfect. One girl got in my face. She just doesn't know. EVERYONE knows about her bad ass. She is provoking me, because she thinks nothing is going to happen. Now I know we're going head-to-head. The problem with disciplining her is the whole class doesn't like her, so they egg the situation on, making it worse. Lord JEE-sus, as my line sister would say. When I invoke the Lord, I am dead serious. I seriously need all the heavenly help I can stand.

 

Did I mention I, the creative poli sci major/drama minor, am teaching MATH???????

 

Do you know the feeling of starting a week behind everyone else? And, though everyone knows you started later, they expect you to be with the program already? I'm living that, now. So I've checked out a book on discipline methods. I'm not happy with it (it's 15 years old, and urban middle schools are a whole 'nother ballgame) but it may provide me with a start.

 

Now, don't get it twisted: I'm not trying to be their friend. I'm not even necessarily trying to be nice. I have a quiet voice, and I don't like to yell. These kids seem to enjoy yelling. I'm purchasing a whistle. I'm thinking bribery as behavior modification (these hellions are competitive) will work for a while. But how do I convey actions and consequences without going directly to counselor or assistant referrals? ARGH! Corporal punishment--bring it back, I say. Hee. Hee. Just. Kidding. Besides, some of those kids are bigger than i am, and crazier. Well, less controlled in their craziness. ;o)

 

And, could someone have mentioned the physical pain you experience? Getting up at a goddess-awful time of the morning, walking all over the damnschool all day long. All frickin' day. Skipping lunch b/c of prep, running around during prep.

 

I'm b!+(#ing about prep, but I had a funny day. If I'm not too tired, later, I'll share it.