Wednesday, September 21, 2011

I Got Your Back, Yo

One of my favorite students is a big, linebacker sized boy named J. He's big, he's intimidating, and he's mean. Last year, he was suspended for bringing a weapon to school that he'd made out of scissor blades.

So, when I say "favorite" I don't want you to think that it's because he shows up for class, homework in hand, ready and eager to learn.

Instead, he makes me earn my measly paycheck. I have to constantly remind him that he should be quiet, sitting down, and focused instead of whatever else he tends to be doing. (Usually wasting time or getting his friends riled up.) I'd heard a lot of stories about him and his behavior before he ever stepped foot in my classroom, but I chose to turn a deaf ear. I wanted to give him a fresh start, and made a deal that I wouldn't yell at him if he wouldn't make me ask enough times to have to yell.

But still. After years of being behind, he's made wasting time at school a fine art. His behavior is making progress, but it's slow. Or so I thought.

Yesterday, after I reminded someone that, actually we weren't writing notes in class and were actually trying to learn something, I got an eye roll and dramatic sigh. (First of all, I perfected the eye roll and dramatic sigh, honey. Do not git loud wit me.) I chose to ignore her reaction, but as soon as I'd turned my back, I heard J. lean across his desk and whisper threateningly: Do NOT disrespect my teacher. 


I tried to hide my smile, but I couldn't. The toughest kid in school has my back. I think I'm going to be alright.

11 comments:

Suzanne said...

This made my heart smile. Keep doing what you do best!

Ms. C said...

Love this!! This is why we do what we do some days!! Glad things are going well! We need to catch up soon!

Seashells and Southern Belles said...

This story just made my day... and it's been a rough one. This is so awesome. He recognizes that you have given him a chance and he likes you!!! and that girl better be nice to you, ha. Thank God he is on your side!

Leigh Powell Hines said...

What an awesome story. Love it.

That is wonderful. You will help this young man. I know it.

Haughty by Nature said...

@ Suzanne. Whatever happened to my days of looking at butterflies with Bella? Sigh. P.S. None of my students can read as well as your 5 year old.

Haughty by Nature said...

@ Ms. C. I do love me some character education. If he could learn to read above a 1st grade level that would be great, too.

Haughty by Nature said...

@ Seashells and Southern Belles I LITERALLY thank God he's on my side! I don't know what I did right, but I'm going to keep doing it.

Haughty by Nature said...

@ Hines-Sight Thanks for the kind words! This made me smile so much!

Haughty by Nature said...

@ Hines-Sight Thanks for the kind words! This made me smile so much!

Miss T said...

He's totes gonna be an army commander. I swear it now.

FS said...

That's awesome. LOVE. IT. Way to go Ens~! XOXO

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