I am under strict orders not to be on the computer for long today. I am recovering from a migraine and have an ear infection. Usually, I write my blog posts on the weekend, but this weekend was just too hectic to get it done on time. My husband keeps telling me to take it easy, but it's hard.
There's so much to do and I don't want to disappoint anyone.
I'm writing about disappointment today because of something that happened on Friday. To protect the identity of those involved, I won't go into detail. Some students poked pencils into some of my flexible furniture while I was supporting others. When I discovered this, I didn't yell, but I asked them to stay in at recess to see if they could figure out how to get the pencils out - a consequence to match the misdeed. What I did not expect was to see two of the four students crying uncontrollably after recess was over. They realized that the pencils weren't coming out, but worse for them was they realized that I was disappointed in them. I had to make it very clear that I still liked them, that I still cared about them, and that I forgave them. At lunch time, one of them sought me out with his class teacher. He spent the hour between recess and lunch writing and drawing me a picture of remorse and an apology. I didn't expect this at all. I cried. My tears startled the student. His class teacher had to explain that Mrs. Mali wasn't sad but was happy with his effort and words. He spent the rest of the day checking on me to ensure I was okay.
The desire to satisfy and please those whose opinion matters to us is a strong one.
Today, we had our Remembrance Day ceremony at school. Usually, our talented music teacher Connie Chan coordinates the event. Connie is off recovering from an injury and so I took up the mantle, with significant contributions and planning by our Grade 7 teacher, Lisa Daley. We wanted to do our best, for Connie's sake and for all the staff and students. It went well, considering we did not have a lot of time to rehearse. Unfortunately, because Lisa and I were making all the arrangements, I didn't get the opportunity to take any photos. It's too bad, because the students sat quietly and the choir, band, and poets worked hard. Sorry!
With my blog posts, I always include photos (that I take myself - copyright belongs to me as the photographer). I'm sharing posts of the multilingual learners in my ESL class as they went on their "directions hunt" two weeks ago. This week, they are having a quiz (that my son helped me create) to check for understanding and consolidation of the ideas. Two weeks ago, they had to find the hidden turtle by reading clues that used some of the directional words (in / on / under / behind / beside / between) we've been practicing hearing and saying.
I worry about disappointing my ESL students. They are so keen to come with me for lessons that they pepper me with questions ("Is today ESL?") and they get very disappointed if I have to cancel class because we have a shortage of supply teachers. Today, we welcomed two new students to our school. Neither speak English. This makes 4-5 Newcomer Profiles I need to complete ASAP. I may need to rejig my ESL schedule to better accommodate the students who are fluent in their home languages but require some basic English phrases so they can communicate with their teachers. If I have to demit some students to make room, I have a feeling they'll be disappointed.
I also don't want to disappoint my staff. I have a series of collaborative lessons in store and I want to ensure that "teaching in twos" happens this year and is a rewarding experience for those involved. I'll try to keep my expectations realistic, but I do put a bit of pressure on myself.
It's another busy week. I'll do my best, and try not to disappoint.
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