Being a teacher sounds good, right? You get your summers and holidays off.  You work Monday through Friday from 8 am to 3:30 pm. Great hours!  Pay is okay and there are lots of perks for teachers. Yep, I think I'll be a teacher.

Whoa. Not so fast! Being a teacher is so much more than just thinking you'll be a teacher. In fact... What Are You Thinking?!?!

Being a teacher is a passion. It isn't something you think you'll do. It is something you have to do. I would equate being a teacher to having a calling. You teach when there is nothing else in the world that you can imagine yourself doing. You teach not because you get summers off, but because summers are time to rest, recharge, and prepare for next year's kiddos, AND further your own education and attend workshops. You know that the pay is lousy and that doesn't matter. You aren't in it for the money anyway.   Holidays off?  Well, that is true, but.... you are the last minute shopper at Christmas and the one falling asleep during Easter Sunday because every spare minute before and after school is spent planning and presenting lessons, contacting parents, and readying your room. Great work hours? Well, not so much. Don't forget about early morning bus or playground duty (in any kind of weather) and after school meetings or tutoring. And, what about conferences and evaluations that take place after hours. And about your perks.... Parents have you on speed dial and, in some cases, administrators are unlisted and unavailable.  Kids recognize you in any disguise on Saturday in the grocery store. Take my advice, Don't go to the store thinking you won't run in to anyone you know. Trust me on this. You will.  Not only will the kids recognize you, but they drag their parents over to your cart and, yes, they will scrutinize everything in it.

So, to the young girl I met tonight (and anyone else) that is thinking around the edges of becoming a teacher. Don't. Not unless you are prepared to be passionate and dedicated with every breath you breathe.  Not unless there is no other place in the world you'd rather be than in school. Not unless you are tough enough and strong enough to handle it. Teaching isn't for the faint of heart or the weak. Teaching is one demanding profession. It isn't something that you Think you'll do. It is something that you Have to do.


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This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Parenting doesn't end with birth. Once a child is conceived parenting is a lifelong commitment. The old saying, "It takes a village to raise a child" is only true if the child doesn't have dedicated parents. Sure, we all need help sometimes and it sure is nice to take a day off and enjoy some 'me' time, but this popular saying has become an excuse for parents to let someone else raise their child. That someone is usually the school system. It is awfully convenient for a parent to pass judgement on everyone but themselves. I posted a quote on my FB page this week about parents blaming the teacher when they didn't get their child to school. Since when did it become my responsibility to call the parents to wake them up and remind them to bring their child to school?

Here are my top five responsibilities of parenting (I'm sure you can think of many more):

1. Love your children unconditionally. They will make mistakes. You did too.   Teach them to learn from their mistakes, but always love them no matter what. Sacrifice some time to show them how much you love them.  Material possessions have a price. Time is priceless. Childhood only lasts for a short time.  

2. Discipline them. No one thinks a temper tantrum is cute. No one is amused by the behavior of a brat (sorry I couldn't think of a nicer word). No matter how adorable or precious your child is, they need to be lovingly disciplined. They need to learn that there are expectations and boundaries that are meant to be followed. You know what those cute little spoiled brats grow up to be? Annoyingly entitled adults.

3. Meet their physical needs. A hungry child can't come to school to learn. They come to school to be fed. A child that comes to school in shorts on a day when the windchill is below freezing will not be ready to learn. If your child is sick, please don't send them . As an adult, you may have to go to work when you don't feel good, but don't you want to stay home. Some employers are not 'parent-friendly'. They may not appreciate you taking a day off to take care of a sick child. I understand that you need to work. I understand you might not have anyone able to watch them and you might not be able to afford childcare.  But, please develop an emergency plan to deal with this. It may take a sacrifice on your part, but that is part of being a parent.

4.  Don't play the blame game. You overslept and your child is late to school. They missed the math lesson. Don't blame the teacher. Find out how you can help them at home. Find ways to work with your school system and teacher. You will find that we really do love kids and will be willing to help. However, we can't work miracles. And, next time... set your alarm.

5. No matter how much you hate your child's teacher, don't tell them. Your personal opinion of the teacher should never be discussed with your child. Have a private conference and try to find some middle ground.  If you 'bad mouth' the teacher at home, the child loses all respect for them. If the child and teacher are struggling to 'get long' negative comments made by a parent just make it worse. Look for a solution instead of a sounding board.

Hang on! Only a few more days left until Christmas break!

Have a Very Merry Christmas!
I'm taking next week off, but I'll be back on the 30th of December.

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Take time over your Christmas break to look through my pins at:  Chocolate 4 Teachers.
If you are looking for reading resources to help out during the hectic holidays go to:   Chocolate 4 Teachers

Still in school next week?  Look at the gifs of these fun games and reading resources to make the days race by!

Story and Board Game

       

The Christmas Flower

Christmas Trivia PowerPoint Game

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Your child doesn't bring home the note from the teacher. Whose fault it is? Your child is failing a class. Who is to blame?  Your child is hungry. Is it the schools' responsibility to feed them? Too often the answers come back: 1) the teacher  2) the teacher 3) yes
In summary, schools and teachers are being held accountable for more and more as parents continue to shirk their responsibility  Now, before you get upset because you were a room mother and very active in your child's education, this is not about you. This is about the parent that turned their parenting responsibilities over to school districts and teachers. This is about the parent that believes there has to be someone to blame and it must be the teacher. This is the parent that never answers their phone or attends a parent conference. In fact, they never contact the school unless there is something wrong. Then they contact the school flinging out their accusations about a callous teacher and impersonal school system that doesn't care about their child.

Why is it that the kids who are doing well and not having behavioral issues are always the kids that have involved parents? Why is it that the kids who are struggling with behavior and academic issues have parents that only want to complain? They don't want to be bothered with their child's needs, but when they are contacted about an issue they are ready to cast blame anywhere but on themselves. The truth of the matter is..... it should't be a blame game that no-one will win. It should be about taking responsibility for the things that you are responsible for.

Some parents don't feed their children before school because they know the school will provide breakfast and lunch. Some children rely on school programs for their food, even week-end snack packs. This makes me furious.  Not that schools are providing meals for needy children, but that parents are not taking care of their kids. I do realize that there are special circumstances where parents need some help, but too many have come to rely on and expect it.  I often wonder who really eats the meals that are sent in the week-end snack packs? Does the food actually go to the child that needs it? What about children in the home that are not school age? Are they also going hungry?  Too many adults are standing around with their hands out expecting a donation while the rest of us are working long hours just to keep everything going.

Some parents neglect their child's educational needs. They don't get them to school on time or they pick them up early. Sometimes they don't even bother making them come to school. Then it becomes the teacher's/school's fault that the child is struggling academically.  It is a little hard to teach someone who isn't present. You want me to educate your child? Bring your child to school ready to learn. Not worried about where they are going to sleep tonight or if mom and dad are going to have another fight. Not hungry because no one bothered to fix them something to eat and they are tired of cereal. Don't bring your children to school with the attitude that all the work to be done is the teacher's responsibility because the hardest work will be done by them. Don't drop them off at the door and expect the teacher to work miracles. Don't tell them that the teacher can't do anything if they misbehave. Don't ignore the teacher's calls or notes. Be a participant. Be involved. Accept some responsibility. Be a parent.


Just an ending note*
This is one of my 'hot buttons'. I love kids. All ages and sizes.  I can't stand to see anyone neglected or hurt. This cycle of uninvolved and neglectful parents needs to be broken. Too many innocents are becoming statistics and growing into adults that continue the cycle of abuse.

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Take time over your Christmas break to look through my pins at:  Chocolate 4 Teachers.
If you are looking for reading resources to help out during the hectic holidays go to:   Chocolate 4 Teachers

Check out my Seasonal/Holidays Category for all of your holiday classroom needs!

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This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Let's jump on this roller coaster..... Child enters school. They are praised and rewarded to the delight of their parents.  They join a ball team and get a trophy for every game because no one ever loses.  Child advances through the school system, at times not earning grades for effort, but rather marks showing improvement on assignments they have completed.  All is good. Child graduates. Attends college. Finds that not all professors accept their work ethic. Some of them actually require them to complete all assignments and turn them in by a due date.  We just hit a curve. After college another kink in the ride occurs when the young adult finds that their boss expects them to be at work on time and complete assignments in a timely manner. Aww.. the roller coaster is slowing down. Ready to pick up more passengers and start another ride.

The group that exits is comprised of an assortment of people.  Some are achievers and some that can best be described as self-entitled. These are the ones that fell into a system that rewarded them for doing the right thing robbing them of integrity.  They joined teams that made everyone feel like a winner, but taught no one how to lose graciously.  They were the victim of men in suits that thought letter grades stole their self worth when in actuality earning a grade was teaching them the value of hard work. Their college experience left them bewildered. Wondering what happened to the "everyone-wins-I-get-mastered-for turning-in-what-I-want-when-I-want" plan. They join a society that calls their behavior immature, lacking in responsibility and unaccountable.

And they blame.... us.. their teachers. It doesn't matter that we did everything in our power to fight the system. The voices of money drowned out our screams. We knew that rewards, trophies, and new systems of teaching and grading  were  not good for teaching our kids life skills. Life skills like honesty, integrity, responsibility, accountability, good sportsmanship, manners, courtesy, and the list goes on and on. We knew that some kids would fall into the trap of entitlement. We knew that the real world would be an unforgiving place.  But the very ones that we were fighting for, we were fighting against.

That's right. The kids. The ones that we were trying to teach and protect and guide raised up as empowered adolescents and took away our years of experience with their demands. And, what makes it far worse is that district by district across our nation is falling at the hands of students and their parents.  Teachers have lost their voice and, in many cases, their respect. Schools have turned into political financial institutions catering to those who pay the taxes and vote on issues.  Students are calling the shots and enjoying their power trip while we can only shake our heads at the mess.

And, we will continue seeing the results of this ride as long as our voices are suppressed. We will continuing witnessing adults that don't know how to accept "No" as an answer. Adults that throw tantrums because they don't get their way. Adults that expect society to hand them 'life' on a silver platter.  I just hope the ride gets shut down before too many fall into its' enticing trap.

Nonfiction passages aboutSquanto: Friend of the Pilgrims

Nonfiction passages and printables about turkeys

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Where have manners gone?  What about common decency? Courtesy?  I guess they've gone out of style. I posted about an incident at a local fast food restaurant in Should Discipline or Teaching Methods Change? , as well as, more comments about discipline (or the lack thereof).  A few days later a friend saw three teenagers in the park while she was on the walking trail. One of them was using the restroom in the park in full view of anyone who happened to be there. The other two were loud and belligerent when she told them that public restrooms were available. In fact, one of the teen- agers told her that they could do what they wanted where they wanted.  She moved on down the trail, passing a grandmother and her granddaughter. That is when she made the decision to call the police and report the incident.  They arrived too late to catch the group. The incident left her unnerved and angry. These events may sound like we live in a large city, but we live in a very small town. Less than 11,000 people live in our small community.  It wasn't so long ago that people would sleep with the windows open and forgetting to lock your front door didn't end in tragedy. Not that way any more. On a regular basis, teenagers have been caught vandalizing public property or engaging in  other "petty" crimes (actually in my book, no crime is petty).

About the time I heard of this incident, another friend told me of the changed discipline policy of her school district. Not changed for the better. In fact, more responsibility was being placed on the teacher and less on the students. Students faced little (or no) consequence for misbehavior. They are not being held accountable. Discipline has become a numbers game. It looks better on a district report to have fewer students sent to the office for discipline. The name of the game, Make it Look Good for the Main Office. So... in other words the teacher takes the blame, the child doesn't learn about taking responsibility, and the cycle continues.

Yes, teachers are to nurture and provide a safe learning environment for students, but they also have the Responsibility of teaching their students to be accountable.  The trend towards over indulgence and pampering has continued to escalate. Teachers are no longer allowed to send students to the office and schools that have administrators that support teachers are rare. Kids know this and parents even tell their children that there is nothing the teacher can do about inappropriate behavior.  Unfortunately, this trend is resulting in a mass exodus of dedicated, experienced teachers, AND young adults with no manners. Young adults who have a prejudiced world view. They think everyone owes them something and they can do whatever they want, wherever they want with a total disregard for anyone else (AKA sense of entitlement).

It is refreshing to see young adults (and older ones) that demonstrate common courtesy and manners. They should be commended on their actions and behavior when their peers are standing around with their hands out demanding their way.   I am old fashioned in many aspects, but to me, manners never go out of style. They should be taught, reinforced, and modeled. Our students need to see courtesy in action. They need to know that belligerent behavior is ugly.  Teachers need administrators that support their efforts to educate our students in social skills, even if it means a trip to the office.


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              Look what is coming this week-end! Fiction story with boardgame and printables!
Follow my TpT store and my Pinterest page so you will be the first to know when it is published!

Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Throughout my years in public education, I repeatedly heard the mantra, "We have to change the way we teach because kids have changed."  I realize that today, more than ever, kids expect to be entertained. But, does that mean every lesson has to be a 'dog and pony show' or game?  I don't think so. Some lessons need to be challenging and provoking. Don't get me wrong. I love playing a game just as well as the kids do, but I also realize that as adults they will be expected to have an attention span longer than a 30 second commercial.

Kids may think they want to be entertained, but what they really crave is someone who cares enough about them to demand their respect. Demand isn't enforcing respect, but, rather, earning it. People who always cater to the demands of others loose their respect. It is the same with kids. They try to bully us into submission just to see how far they can push, but when we establish firm structure within the classroom, they stop pushing and start growing into productive adults.

One area where kids have not changed is accountability. Kids still have trouble accepting responsibility for their actions. What about the classic  "Nothing" when we ask what a student is doing.  Or what about this oxymoron, "Did you kick her?" "No, it was an accident." Admitting guilt while denying guilt. Typical kid.  This is yet proof that kids need structure. They need to learn where the boundaries are and how to function successfully within them. Need more proof? Take for example the young adult that almost pushed over my elderly parents in a parking lot. Made me furious!  When I confronted him, you know what he said (with an attitude)??  He said, "I didn't do anything wrong. I come here all the time. What did I do?"  When I told him that the two people he practically ran down were my parents and I didn't appreciate it, he just shrugged and repeated that he hadn't done anything wrong.
Really?

Too often we are asked to entertain rather than teach.  We are asked (and  in some cases expected) to ignore disrespectful behavior. Behavior that is not acceptable in general society, but is gradually becoming the norm. Being a 'little general' in a video game world isn't easy. This time of year especially demands our fortitude. It is so difficult to maintain an educational environment between Thanksgiving vacation and Christmas parties, but hang in there! This is temporary and everything you do will reap huge benefits, if not in a few months, than in the faces of your kids, in a few years,  when they realize that you were right.

So... have kids changed?  The way that kids entertain themselves have changed.  Attention spans seem shorter. They are definitely more entitled.  BUT... deep down kids still need AND want structure. They still need to be taught meaningful lessons. They still need and want rules, guidelines, and consequences. Kids still need adults that earn their respect and make them feel safe and secure. Whether or not they want to admit it,  kids still need us.


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Looking for nonfiction reading resources that are engaging and challenging?  Check out my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers, and my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers !!!  Lots of new resources coming out to make teaching reading easier than ever!






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This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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I had a vet visit this week. Well... not me, my cat had a vet visit. We (the vet and I) had a conversation about my profession. He had genuine praise for teachers (something very refreshing) and told me that there isn't anyone that hasn't been touched by a teacher at some time in their life. And, he went on to say, that most have something in their lives that they can thank a teacher for.  I never thought about it like that. I mean, I do realize what an enormous responsibility I have. I do acknowledge that it shouldn't be taken lightly. We are touching lives daily.  Planting seeds. Instilling ideas. Sparking imaginations. Switching on curiosity. Shaping and guiding future doctors, nurses, accountants, parents, and, even, teachers.

I've had several teachers touch my life. My parents and family, Sunday school teachers, piano teachers, elementary and secondary (and beyond) teachers, friends, colleagues, all have taught me valuable lessons. I've learned from mistakes and failures. I've learned from repetition and rote memory. I've learned for the love of learning and for the sole purpose of passing a test.

What things am I passing on to the people that I am teaching?  What do they see in me? Am I letting them learn from their mistakes? Do they have the freedom to explore? Are they confident enough to meet challenges?  I am very passionate about teaching. And, that isn't always a good thing. My passion for others to learn and reach their goals is oftentimes larger than their desire to reach the achievement.

Yes, we are all touching someone's life today and making a difference. Sometimes we are the only person that a student can trust or talk to. Sometimes we are the only one in their corner cheering them on. And, sometimes we are the only ones that can open their eyes to their potential.

Who has touched your life? And, more importantly whose life are you touching?


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If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

Check out this charming tale of Tad Lincoln and the first turkey pardon

Non-Fiction Passages and Printables

Read all about the Mayflower

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This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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I've heard some disturbing things over the past 20+ years in education. Seen some pretty disturbing things too! But one of the most disturbing is the pushing of technology on our kids. It seems that every school district is pushing iPads, Chrome Books, or some other device into the hands of  every student. What is more shocking is that (pleasantly so), after the new wears off, students are asking for books and pencil and paper. I recently talked to a parent that was new to the area and not at all happy about the education their children were receiving. Too much technology. Too much playing around. Too much fluff. Not enough learning.

So why the push if students, parents, and several educators are voicing concerns? I think it all comes back to the all mighty dollar and the ill advice from those in the non-education realm. People who will benefit from the purchase of several thousand dollars worth of technology. People who don't know your child. People who are only looking at what is in it for them.

Who pays for these devices? We do. The taxpayers. Parents if one is damaged or lost. So... the ones that are saying they don't want them are the ones paying for them?  Interesting.  Tax dollars are also being spent on adding additional tech support to school districts. These salaries could pay for additional teachers to reduce class size, but they are not. They are being used to hire more people that believe that a valid educational experience only occurs when a child's hands are on a computer (and yes, I have been told that by a tech person).

Can you tell that this makes me angry?  I hear the same complaints over and over and yet more technology is being added. Parents are concerned that their child is not spelling as well as they should be or they are not learning how to write.  Parents and most educators understand that this is the age of technology, but we also understand that students need to have a diverse set of skills that will help them function in the 'real world' and problem solve. We want our children to grow up, not only knowing how to use a computer, but we also want them to have a deeper understanding of the world around them. They can't achieve this sitting in front of a screen.

So, challenge your students to unplug and challenge yourself to create engaging lessons that don't involve technology. Get them to use the computer located between their two ears. Move them into situations where they are called on to use social skills and manners. Present them with problems that need solutions.

Creating a lifelong learner doesn't have to be centered entirely around technology. It can use technology as a support, but students need skills so that they will rely on themselves first.



Check out my Facebook page, Chocolate 4 Teachers
If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

Seven Spooky Stories

Great for elementary... a collection of seven original spooky stories and printables to reinforce reading skills. Click here and watch the gif!












          One of my all time favorites... The Legend of Sleepy Hollow! Just in time to scare some middle schoolers!!










Here's another gif to watch! American Holidays- non-fiction passages and printables to teach your students the reasons why we celebrate special days and the history behind these holidays. 

Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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So you want to quit. You want a new career. You're tired of constantly taking care of someone else's kids while your own are basically being ignored. You're tired of fighting bureaucracy. You long to have support, but find that you are on your own.

 Sound familiar? Unfortunately, this is becoming all too common among public school teachers.  I quit. After 21 years, most of which were awesome, I gave it up. My health and peace of mind were too important to ignore. I was tired of the endless, worthless meetings and lack of administrative support. I was tired of a few important names running the school, even though they knew nothing about education or kids.  Oh, I'm still teaching. You may take the teacher out of the classroom, but you can't take the classroom out of the teacher (or something like that).

Too often I read comments from teachers (from all over the world) bemoaning the lack of administrative support, the lack of discipline, or the endless hours spent in preparation and meetings.  Not once do I read comments concerning low pay or about children.  In a nutshell, teachers love their career choice and they love children, but they are asking for a little respect and support. Not much to ask for. It isn't hard to give. So then, why is it so elusive? Is this a current trend? Or is this a forewarning of times to come?

I've addressed this issue before, as many have, but it continues to be widely ignored.  Too often non-educators are putting their noses in the educational arena and leaving teachers on the outside looking in. Too often politicians are making pretty campaign speeches promising things that teachers can't possibly deliver.  Who winds up with egg on their faces? Yep, the teacher.

So.. I've (once again) presented the problem, but where is the solution. Who knows? I'm just one little piece of the puzzle. Who will listen to me? We are all one little piece of the puzzle, but without us, where would the picture be?  Take your last bit of energy and get involved with teacher groups. Find out what teachers in other regions and districts are doing. Be positive and proactive. It may not be a solution, but you will find others in the same boat. There is comfort in finding someone who understands.

And, there are alternatives. There are still places where you can teach without being a part of a large public school system. These idyllic places do exist. I had the privilege of being at one this week. A county school where discipline and respect matter. Where kids are learning. Where teachers and administrators are supporting one another.  The setting is small and the pay is small, but the reward is huge. That may not be possible where you are or it may not fit in with your budget. But, there are options. Teachers make excellent public speakers, trainers,  adjunct instructors, private school teachers, parochial school teachers, or consultants. Don't underestimate yourself. You have talents and training that you can use in multiple ways.

In the meantime, don't give up. Find a support group or friend that understands and cares. And, above all, remember why you are dedicated to this profession... the kids.



Check out my Facebook page, Chocolate 4 Teachers
If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

Check it out

Check out  Stonehenge: a complete unit (11 page original fiction story of suspense and 7 non-fiction passages)!!!

                           Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Chocolate 4 Teachers

Okay... let's just put it out there. The kid that drives you crazy is never absent. Not once. Ever. Move?  Not in a lifetime.  Where is justice when you are falling down trying to teach a room of engaged learners and one decides to disrupt the process?  Why does that one kid get under your skin?  You've tried everything. Calling the parents. Inviting the parents to sit in your classroom (this never works, by the way, because 'precious' is always on his/her best behavior in front of mommy and daddy). You've talked to  the principal about the situation. You've collaborated with the other teachers. You've prayed. In short you have used every piece of advice and you're still stuck with a kid that gets on every last nerve.

The worst part of the situation. You're beating yourself up because you feel less than stellar. After all shouldn't teachers love ALL of their kids?  Not so much. We're human. Sometimes people make us uncomfortable. Sometimes we don't like being around certain people. Sometimes we find people annoying. But, we still learn to work with them and for them.  The relationship between teachers and students is no different.

The key word here is Y-O-U. You have tried, but has the child tried? Does the child expect you, because you are an adult, to magically conform to their expectations and change? Yes, you are the adult, but you are also realistic. It takes two to solve a problem. It will take both parties (parents included) to resolve any issues and develop a working relationship. Y-O-U can't do it alone.

Time to bring everybody on board. Time for everyone to have a strong dose of reality. Yes, we are supposed to love everyone. And, I try. But there are some that I just don't like the way they act. That is being honest.  Not what you would expect a teacher to say, but true. Be honest. Be real. And, keep trying, but get parents, principal, and, above all, the student involved. Ignoring the obvious won't make it go away. Deal with it, work through it, and at the end of the day (or week or school year) let it go. You're not perfect and if anyone expects you to be.... well.... let's just say they are in for many more disappointments in life.



Check out my Facebook page, Chocolate 4 Teachers
If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

          One of my all time favorites... The Legend of Sleepy Hollow! Just in time to scare some middle schoolers!!

Check it out!

Check out  Stonehenge: a complete unit (11 page original fiction story of suspense and 7 non-fiction passages)!!!

Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Chocolate 4 Teachers

Okay. Time to put our money where our mouth is. I live in Missouri and lately some superintendents have come under scrutiny for having such exorbitant salaries. At least 4 times what I made after 21 years of service. Granted, I do understand that I only had to take care of one classroom, and I didn't have to obtain a doctorate or specialist degree. Oh, and I didn't have to work 365 days of the year. I mean, I did get my summers off. So that is probably why some superintendents are paid so much. Right?  I forgot to count my sick days. Yes, they were a part of my benefit package and health care. Dental insurance and eye care?  Well... those weren't important for me, just a classroom teacher. I only needed healthcare and I was only charged a small amount of the cost which was deducted from each paycheck.  So what if the deductible was almost as much as I made in a month. Who's counting?  Did I receive compensation for my vehicle wear and tear? Nope. Not a dime. You see, where I choose to live is up to me.  So compensation for vehicle maintenance wasn't part of my package.  Funny thing... the BOE also forgot to include a stipend for a cost of living increase. I'm sure it was just an oversight.  Extra vacation time. What are you talking about? Aren't paid holidays and an entire summer off enough??!! You know, by the time you figure in my over-time, summer classes, extra meetings, preparing my room for the first day of school, nights spent conferencing with parents (thanks for the pizza by the way), and arriving early for duty I'm sure those "one sick day a month" more than covered it. Who needs more time off? I'll just tell my family to put on their big boy pants and deal with it. Retirement? I'd like to one day. It has always been a dream of mine to one day not have to wake up to the annoying buzz of the alarm. But don't worry about providing any additional money added to my retirement fund. I'll make it. After all, I see all kinds of retired teachers getting jobs subbing or greeting customers at retail stores.

What?  What did you say? You don't think I'm grateful for all of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Oh, you bet I am. They are the only reason that I stayed with you all these years.  It certainly wasn't the incredible salaries or benefit packages. But you know what really ticks me off?? The huge, and I mean HUGE, discrepancy between salaries. Let's put things in perspective. The guy at the top of the food chain wouldn't have a job if it weren't for all the ones at the bottom supporting him. We all need each other. We all need to work together.  But don't treat me like I should be grateful for your crumbs. Treat me like the professional that I am. Like I matter. Like I do make a difference. Treat me like my district matters. Like every one of us is important.

And, by the way.... all of you are important. Every day you make a difference in the lives of those who matter most... our kids.



Check out my Facebook page, Chocolate 4 Teachers
If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

           Need a Non-Fiction lesson for October?  Try this resource about the New Salem Witch Trials.

Non-Fiction Task Cards

Check it out!

This is my newest.... Stonehenge: a complete unit (11 page original fiction story of suspense and 7 non-fiction passages)!!!

Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Chocolate 4 Teachers

We all want security. Security in our homes. In our relationships. In our jobs. Security helps to ease stress and tension. If we desire security, as adults, how much more our children need it.

A secure classroom is more than locks on doors. It is the knowledge that they are safe from all harm. Ridicule. Embarrassment. Negative thoughts. Bullying. Ignorance. Children do desire (even though many don't realize it or admit it) a structured classroom. They are not looking for a friend. They are looking for an adult to guide, teach, and protect them.  


This doesn't mean that you can't joke and have a good time. I love to laugh.  It does mean being aware of what student needs are.  Not always easy. We aren't always able to successfully navigate through a roomful of students thoughts, emotions, and needs (after all, we are human).  The child who is always laughing and joking may be hiding deep pain. They may not like being the recipient of a joke. We may not realize this until after the fact, but it is not always too late. If we realize that a child feels insecure in our presence then we can take steps to remedy that. But keep in mind it isn't always fixable.

 I've been told that I am intimidating. I know I can be. I am confident, outspoken, and a female. That can make me intimidating to some. Those who get to know me realize that I wouldn't hurt an ant (notice I didn't say a fly). I have a tender heart full of compassion. We've all been told negative things about our personalities. Usually by  students that like to test the waters or their parents. You may hear things like, "You pick on me," "You don't like me," "My child feels like you don't like them," "My child feels like you are too strict." And the list goes on. The truth, in these situations, is that someone (child or parent) is reacting to a situation they don't feel comfortable in. They don't feel safe. Maybe they don't know how to function in a room where they are held accountable. Or maybe they don't know how to deal with so much structure. You can learn to cooperate and form a team. You can change the perception, if everyone is willing to invest the time. Unfortunately, not all parents or children want to solve problems. Some are not willing to change their first impression. But for all of those situations there are at least twice as many that can be resolved.

There are two keys to achieving this: Building relationships and communication.  Although many educational speakers want you to believe that building relationships is a new concept, it is actually as old as the concept of school. Teachers are all about building relationship with their students within an appropriate context.  Teachers need to watch, listen, and talk to their students to discover how they feel, think, and react. Simply asking how their week-end was or what is their favorite book will tell a teacher volumes. You begin to understand the student and their environment. Communication is important in any relationship. Clear communication. Clearly communicate to students and parents your expectations. Clearly let them know who you are.  If a problem occurs, act proactively, not reactively. Communicate quickly and clearly the problem and a suggested resolution.

When kids feel safe in our rooms and in our presence, everyone is a winner. Stress and tension are reduced. Lessons are more productive. Sound like a perfect world??? Maybe, but we can all take steps to improve our students' feelings of security.


Check out my Facebook page, Chocolate 4 Teachers
If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

           Need a Non-Fiction lesson for October?  Try this resource about the New Salem Witch Trials.

Non-Fiction Task Cards

Need a book filled with resources for all holidays??? This is it!

174 pages of non-fiction passages and printables!

Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Chocolate 4 Teachers

We talk a lot about entitlement and how it is affecting our youth (and adults), but we fail to mention that there is a flip side. Those ethical, thoughtful, kind, concerned individuals who have work ethics and morals and values. Those who do an honest day's work. Those who still value a handshake and all that it represents.  Those who value integrity and honor.

With the increase of the privileged few, the number of those opposing them continues to grow.  More and more conversations center on those that are tired of supporting those with their hands out. In the educational realm, I am seeing more educators raising the bar of accountability. I applaud their efforts, even when they are not recognized and/or supported by their administrators. They are doing the right thing. They are truly preparing their students for responsibilities they will face in adulthood. They are changing the status quo. They are making a difference.

It isn't easy to go against the grain. Like swimming upstream during salmon season in bear country.  It takes courage to do what is right. It takes faith. But who wins? Our kids.  They learn that life isn't fair. Good doesn't always win. And, sometimes being strong is being silent while you cry.  They learn important life skills from these brave educators that put their reputations on the line (and possibly their jobs) to hold their students accountable and teach them that everyone is not a winner.

Teaching a child to learn from their mistakes is as old as time. It is one of the most valuable lessons a child can learn. Teaching them to turn from their self-indulgent ways to self-reliance is a small miracle. The end result is an adult that is a functioning, contributing member of society. Someone that gives and pays back. Someone that demonstrates honor.  Someone that doesn't believe they are entitled simply because they breath air.

Now, that is something to be proud of.

In looking back at my blog statistics, those with the highest number of readers and shares tend to be negative in nature.  This blog that congratulates the endless efforts of educators that care about their students today and tomorrow will probably have fewer readers. I'd like to change that. Share this blog with teachers you know, your favorite teacher, or your colleagues to let them know that you care and appreciate all that they are doing.


Have a great week-end!
Kim


Check out my Facebook page, Chocolate 4 Teachers
If you are in need of some thorough reading resources at teacher-friendly prices check out my product previews on my Pinterest page, Chocolate 4 Teachers.
Or... better yet follow my TpT store, Chocolate 4 Teachers  so you will receive emails every time I publish a new resource!

Need a book filled with holiday resources??? This is it!

174 pages of non-fiction passages and printables!

56 pages of Non-Fiction Passages and Printables

Or a book with a complete SLO? Try this one!

Privacy Policy

This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do I store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. I am not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without my permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on June 5, 2015. If you have any questions feel free to contact me directly at kimberlyfrencken@gmail.com

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Chocolate 4 Teachers