It happened to me today.
Now, most people would agree that having 35 sixth graders in a small classroom is a recipe for disaster. Add the fact that it is a Friday of a long weekend. Add a substitute teacher, stir and all **** breaks loose. Right? Oh yeah, it's a public school too.
Of course, every student coming into the room asked, "Are you our substitute?" Thinking I should morph into my prison guard persona I feel like saying, "Only if you're not going to annoy me." But kindness gets the better of me and I respond, "I can't think of a better place to be."
Clearly, this was an unexpected response. They now sit down with that deer in the headlight look in their eyes.
Over the next 6 hours, my opinion of sixth graders is completely transformed. Though on the noisy side, these kids are on task, working independently on math and a history project. I hear not a single ****you. Weird.
Usually, having a sub brings out the worst in kids. Not here.
Today I witnessed what happens when you have teachers and staff all on the same page. Dedicated to engaging with students at every possible level.
Creating and sustaining a dynamic environment that includes parents as well as neighborhood involvement.
Now that's what I'm talkin about!
