Yesterday and today were the training days for my job. I think I'm going to love it!
It's a school that teaches mostly challenging kids, and so the staff are just some of the most competent, motivated, and laid-back people I've ever met-- as a group. I get to work with a guy named Kelly, who now teaches the Social Studies lab, but he's been the driving force behind this program for 30 years, starting what was then an after-school program for adult learners and is now an entire school for kids who need second chances. Or last chances. I'm really excited to work with him and with the other staff members.
And I'm excited to get to know the students. This year will be an exercise in patience, resilience, separating myself from my work, and also putting my whole self and soul into my work.
I'm trying to make sure to read my scriptures every morning before work, and Kevin has some General Conference talks on CD that I'll listen to in the car. I know there will be many uplifting things about my job. I'll be working with kids that really need me, and I'll be able to make a difference just by being supportive and consistent. But I know that every day will bring challenges. A friend that worked there said she cried the first time one of her students called her a b----, but then after the 10th or 11th time, it didn't hurt anymore.
One thing that we talked about in training, in how to deal with angry children, is to not let their anger make you angry. I'll try to keep this in mind. I am there to help them through their problems, but their problems are not mine.
I feel like I'll encounter just the same problems I encountered last year at Orem Junior High, but probably more consistently and more developed. I could see some problems and issues budding in the Junior High students that probably will come to fruition and be full-on problems in my students this year. But people with problems are still people. I just really don't want to see any of my students from last year at my school this year... although there were a few on a straight course towards it. Maybe it will be fun to work with them again.
2 comments:
You are awesome. I am glad you have a positive attitude about your new job. This isn't just some job to keep you busy/earn some rent, but you sound dedicated to making a difference in these student's lives. I think you'll really learn a lot about yourself this year. Good luck!
Your attitude is inspiring! I hope you really like your job, too. It's so important for these kids to have good influences like you, so way to go. :-)
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