Do What You Can Do

Aloha everyone.  It seems like forever and a day since I have written about my classroom happenings.  I just finished up with conferences last week and they went really well.

All of my parents showed up except one. I had a feeling he wouldn't.  You know that feeling.  The one that really needs some extra help at home, but is just not going to get it.  I think it's a struggle just to get food on the table.

This little guy is a real sweetheart, but is low.  He has not done one homework assignment and I don't want to make him stay in at recess to do it.  He often comes in with no backpack, no shoes and the same clothes on that he wore the day before.

Students like this can really touch your heart.  It reminds me of why I started teaching.

I have been teaching a long time. In order to last in this profession you have to let go of what happens outside the classroom.  I can't control his home life, but I can do everything in my power from 8-2.

I remember my sister telling me once that I was very "cold hearted".  How could I not get involved in their home lives?  She said she couldn't ever be a teacher because she would be too sad about not being able to take care of them.

I know for a fact I am not cold hearted.  Teachers are a rare breed.  Not everyone is cut out to do it. You have to separate what you do or you will burn yourself out.  You can't solve the world's problems, but you can create a safe little world of your own.  That's the beauty of teaching.