Day Nine: You Mean I Get Paid for This?

The first half of the day today was magical (even if there were a few sad moments).

1st period was so quiet today. Lesson learned: If you have a room full of boys, give them some sticks and some glue. Maybe some paint. It's like they turn into little boys playing with models and legos. I had one moment where I was a little horrified and heartbroken. The O5er in 1st that was really defiant last week was respectful and working yet again today. He started telling me about how he used to paint houses. He also told me he got in a fight with his dad. Not the kind of fight that we normally have with our parents. He also told me that he slept at a bus stop for a few weeks at one time. No way to know if it's true or not. And you wonder why I fight so hard to have at least my classroom be a safe place for these kids.

2nd period? So much better. The student that I had the confrontation with yesterday was totally fine today. He's getting closer to finishing school, so maybe something sunk in? He said he's going to do all his work because he wants to graduate. No idea if anything I said or did helped, or if it was something else. What I do know is that nothing is more motivating than self-motivation. He is at a point where he is driven to succeed not because of a reward he is going to get today, but for a long term hope of a better life.

3rd period I had a first. I told the students that they had 20 more minutes to work, and a few of the students were upset...because they wanted class to be LONGER. I even had a student ask if he could come at lunch to keep working, and another ask if she could come 6th period when she doesn't have a class. Can someone tell me what they put in the breakfast this morning?

4th period my girl that finally worked yesterday shut down today. Didn't want to work. Apparently class is boring...because none of her friends are in there. So, I left her alone again.

6th period turned into a zoo. What on earth happened? Had to send two students to the office after they were RUNNING through the room while others were using scissors. I have a parent/teacher conference with the boy and his mom tomorrow morning. It will definitely be interesting. In the midst of everything one of the boys snuck out of the room and walked outside the side door to the school. Luckily I was able to talk him back inside. Ah the joys.

P.S. I got my first paycheck yesterday!