Checking Too See That I Haven't Pulled All My Hair Out

I had one of those days today that makes me wonder why I became a teacher. Some general said that even the best laid battle plans are useless once the first shot is fired. That's the way it was today. I have a lesson plan, I provide the students with a way to keep track of their assignments, and I'm good to go. But they sometimes have another agenda. I usually don't have to send students out of the room for unruly behavior, because they know the rules and procedures. But today, for some reason, maybe Super Bowl fever, they forgot how to be students. Ugh. So why do I do this? Why do I continue to expose myself to this abuse. And now the school district wants to take money from my check for overpaying on my sick leave. When it rains, it pours.

I have to remember my motivation for being an educator: To be a positive influence in the lives of young people. To provide them with skills they can use; both academic and life skills. The frustration I have is it seems the population I serve has another agenda. An agenda that undermines what I am trying to do. I had a student the other day who complained that he didn't have money for a 50 cent poster board, but in the same discussion, wanted to show me his $200 shoes. Is there something wrong with this picture? I guess I am just venting today. I could use another cup of coffee. Starbucks anyone?