Day 2: Doctor Jeykel and Mr. Hyde

Greetings

     We can all agree that there are times our students can be a tiny bit ungrateful. They can expect way too much from us and never seem satisfied with the answers we provide. They throw temper-tantrums, pout and at times can be genuine little black rain clouds ruining our otherwise sunny days. Yet, even in their darkest hours. Even when we are feeling like punching bags. We need to stay positive and keep a smile on our faces.
        One thing I wish I was taught back in college is that it is okay to be angry. We teachers have to deal with a lot each and everyday and not only from our students. At times parents, other faculty and even administration can make our lives a living hell and yet we are taught that to be anything but accommodating, is wrong.

THIS NEEDS TO STOP NOW.

       The difference for us is that our anger needs careful planning. At school, it is important to know exactly which teachers and staff you can go to and when to go to them. Too many teachers isolate themselves and never stop to think that their coworkers are going through the exact same things. What did you think little Timmy only swears at you when asked to focus on his work, that Sally decided this year she would only lose your assignments on a regular basis or that Michael's parents think that you are the only teacher not doing your job? I am sorry to have to tell you all this, but you are simply not that special.
     
So its time we plan accordingly:

1. Give yourself some time to think: 
1. Back away from the situation or ask the student to come see you at another time. Jot down a few notes and think carefully about how you want to approach the situation. Remember once you respond its out there and can not be taken back.  
2.  Know who you can trust and make a plan: 
1. Know when you need to seek out someone to talk to and try not to focus on only the negative. Make a vent and plan session. It is important to get things off your chest, but also to come up with solutions to problems.  
3.  Forgive, but not necessarily forget: 
1. If a student is acting out there is usually a reason for it. That does not excuse what they are doing or make how you are feeling any less valid, but remember to clean the slate each day. 
4.    Emotions are part of the job:
1. A good teacher allows emotion to fuel their teaching. Just like any good fuel, if not handled appropriately you can get burned. It is important to be passionate about what we do, but also to think about how we approach a situation. Sometimes it is okay to let a student know when you are disappointed or upset with them, but do not let it get out of control. 
5. Negative feedback is not a complete picture:
1. One student/parent/coworkers/administrator's opinion does not dictate your entire career. Remember for every one bad review there is usually a good one. Look at those students that get what you are trying to do and remember why you are in this profession. DO NOT GIVE UP ON THE PROBLEM(S)/STUDENT'S IN YOUR LIFE, but remember all the good. 

     Being angry is a part of life and something we teachers know very, very well. Do not let your emotions be bottled up until you feel like quitting. Effective teachers are not always liked, because they think outside of the box and push their students (and sometimes the student's parents) to be better, more intelligent/informed individuals. Remember you are allowed to be angry and get upset and still be a professional.

    PS: If you enjoyed this post or want another teachers perspective on this topic why not give one of these other blogs a try:

1. Faculty Focus: She Didn't Teach by Maryellen Weimer.
2. @DavidGeurin: Is It Ever Okay For Teachers To Get Angry With Students by David Geurin 
3. Cool Cat Teacher Blog: When you're angry by Kimberly Mitchel