It's that time of year again... parent-teacher conferences. And when you work at a school where the parent pays, the parents show up and usually have a lot to say and ask. It is usually a good and sanctifying experience for me, where I have to learn to fight the tendency to people-please or flatter, and I have to learn how to speak the truth in love. There are also ways to encourage the parents in their support of the child at home. It is really tricky sometimes, so I would definitely appreciate your prayer today (just ask for wisdom). I have had a few really great conferences so far this morning, so we're off to a great start. I definitely get kind of nervous, and I have to remind myself to speak slowly and not say "like" too much (they already think I'm young), and listen carefully. Some of these parents are BRIGHT, and some are very well-versed or well-opinionated in their educational philosophies of choice. ("This test was completely unreasonable, because of this, this and this...")Anyway, I have about 12 more today, but here's the good news. The kids are gone, so that leaves a few gaps to work on grading and catch up. AND... Noah's Mom brought me this amazing HUGE piece of BUTTERSCOTCH PIE. Yummy. If I can scrounge up 50 cents to go grab a Dr. Pepper, my day just got much brighter.
I think that this is always a good experience for me overall. It just feels weird. You have your high heels (okay, not really... still have my flats on), and your professional garb, and you feel like such a career woman. It feels out of character for simple me (whose heart is homebound). I fit in with the kids much better... (probably even better at a camp or babysitting setting, then a school one) oh well.
Back to the pie...
4 comments:
I have found a way to make this even more uncomfortable. I have 120 students this year, and, mostly out of laziness, I have not learned but about half of their names to match their faces. Now I am having the most uncomfortable parent meetings, because they keep bringing up their kids, and I am having to sometimes answer in generalities, because I really don't know who they are talking about. I may be the worst teacher ever!
Dang, Mr. Stone. Don't feel bad. 120 is a TON. With that many, they should really have them later on in the year. I bet you are coming up with some terrific generic lines. :) Also... thanks for your comment the other day about teachers getting sick. You guys keep using hand sanitizer, taking your vitamins, and drinking your OJ (among other fun drinks)! Maybe we'll both stay well until next September!?!
mrs. butts, i was thinking the same thing actually today about not really fitting in with the kids in a school setting. i think i am getting to like my job better as i have been thinking about it more like i am at camp. we have been playing low ropes initiatives to teach the kids to work together which has been much more enjoyable then sitting at desks all day!
Hope today went well. I would be HORRIBLE at something like that. Sounds like you're doing a fantastic job!
ps. I want to mail your book back on Monday. Would you mind emailing me your address?? :) Thanks!
Post a Comment