Thread:Lidewey/@comment-28482541-20170720152241/@comment-30339728-20170721004432

Hey, do not ever call yourself a "lowly teacher's aide". You provide an invaluable part to the classroom. I'd love to have you in my class - so if you ever move here...

I really do hope that you are able to share some ideas with me, because I was offered a new job this afternoon. It was not the job I interviewed for earlier this month, but it is at the same school. I had called and left a message yesterday for the principal that I hadn't heard anything about that job and was wondering if the position had been filled.

When she called me today, she said that one HAD been filled with someone certified to teach special education. However, she said that she felt I was really great and that I'd be better suited to upper level kids. And, as the Goddess of Serendippity and Patience had helped things to unfold between my phone call and today,  a position opened up last night and she felt I'd be the one for it.

So, she offered me a job to teach 7/8 grade Science (regular and gifted kids) and regular 7th grade math. I'm not really certified for either and she knows that, but feels I'd be a really good choice. She is going to provide me with the support etc needed to take the Praxis tests to get certified in science and math (science shouldn't be too hard, math hmmm.)  I need to do science next year and if I remain in the position, math the following one.

Also, and this is the tougher part, we see what I need for a Masters to be certified to teach gifted kids. [Louisiana requires Masters to teach gifted]. I am nervous about that part like crazy. At 58 I don't really relish the idea of going back to school, but I have at least 3 years and things could change. She knows this and seems to be very willing to help me. This school system is really hard to get into - this was my 4th year trying. She acknowledged she knew these subjects are not my first choices (nor my self assessed strengths) and kept pointing out how things can work out and change and that this would be my "foot in the door".

The most important thing to me is the way she described the students. Regardless of income and/or abilities, they have their eyes on their futures. Whether that be college or career, so they want to learn. That's the kind of student I'd like to have again. I've spent the past 3 years pounding my head against the proverbial wall to try to crack into my current students' heads enough to make a difference. People (coworkers) say that I have, but I don't see it and it makes me feel ineffective.

Anyway, on a more positive note. (?) I read a lot of what Anon had to say and feel he/she has very valid points. The writing style reminds me of someone, but making a conjecture or accusation as to who it is DOES NOTHING positive so why bother.

In my opinion, one of the biggest things that keeps happening is reaction at perceived personal attacks. At this point I really feel that everyone has to walk away for a time. Say nothing, write nothing, do nothing. I don't mean to ignore and it will go away. By this I mean, take the time to just cool off and calm down and get to a place where we/they are able to LISTEN to what is being said. People are so agitated that no matter what is said/written peoples' words are looked at with suspect and are being disected between the lines to see if something can be found as to what is being said ABOUT people, versus ABOUT the issue.

As for Anon's idea for a Anonymity Wall, well I kind of like it. I was trained from an early age to not make waves, I was older, I had to give in and keep the peace. It took me into my early 30s to change that between my sister and I. When it happened it was raw and ugly and it took until my 40s for us to finally resolve the issues and get close. So much wasted time between us. :-(

For me, here, I've had only one person be ugly to me. That person cut me off, with a curt dismissal. It hurt, but I figured, well that makes me sad, but there are so many nice people here. We had/have mutual friends and I feel no need to call that person out, what good would it serve? I've had others "delete" me from their FL  without warning or explanation, and again, while it hurt my feelings, I respect their decisions. It is their game and if I am not their cup of tea, then okay. I am so fortunate to continue to meet fun and sweet people here. Some are game friends, some are not. It's all okay.

I plan to re-read the thread with Anon's comments (I have to remember what it is called and find it again though) and then I can give a more complete answer. Like I said, I do like the idea, but a huge rule would need to be in place for the postings there. Only ask/address the underlying issue. Do not comment on any person. That would only bring things hot again.

Sorry to have rambled so much. You make me feel very welcome and comfortable in "talking" to you.

Catch you later or tomorrow morning.