Teaching Highlight
Teaching Highlight
Each year you get at least one kid that is not quite crazy, but nowhere near “normal.” This was Thomas, always staying for after-school tutoring whether he needed to or not because he only felt comfortable around a couple of teachers and this way he could interact with us in a relaxed atmosphere. The other kids make fun of kids that are not just like them and middle school must be the worst place in the world to be different. Thomas would have frequent meltdowns and throw tantrums when people would criticize him. This was how it was most of last year and this year as well. As the end of the year approached Thomas made it known that he had a crush on an older girl at school. This was worrisome for me because I too remember how cruel middle school girls can be. However, despite his fears and the advice of any fellow student who he dared ask what to do, he asked the girl to go to lunch with him and she agreed. This seems like a very tiny and insignificant detail for many, but both of them were learning how to be grown ups. He had decided to go out on a limb and do something completely out of character to get what he wanted; this being the attention of the previously mentioned girl. Even though everyone saw disaster on the horizon Thomas persevered and succeeded.
July 14th, 2006 at 9:59 am
Jason–
Even though I don’t know Thomas (but I might at my next job!), I feel like I do. He’s lucky to have learned with a teacher who “got” him. In fact, all of your students are lucky to share a year with you because you’re willing to be honest. Best of luck.