January 3-it is the first day of the year. my first class-the third year journalism class entered the classroom with no chairs again-some things never change. When I asked the boys to get some chairs in a room we have always convened (though it isn't ours), they were told to ask a permission from the supply officer who rarely comes to school in the morning. I am saddened again at the type of behavior they show constantly chatting about nothing just for lack of thoughts to say. Although i've asked them to write their reflections for the New Year, they have constantly pushed to chat about some unimportant requirements from other classes. I wonder why they have enjoyed such culture of practically doing nothing for secen long hours in school. It reminded me of the movie "Eat,Pray,Love" and the word Il Ber Far Niente or Dolce Far Niente (the sweetness of doing nothing).
I don't want to start a year nagging how they constantly waste time and at some point I am also reflecting if I have done less of what I should do as a teacher. It's that consideration that too many of their techers have asked them too many requirements and projects that they have also adopted the technique of plagiarism and cheating which to me isn't going to help them at all when they get to college.
I do not want to prescribe on what should be done but I can share what I think these kids can use to get better. After they have passed the paper reflection, we discussed what they have done with their families during the holidays. It was my first time to introduce TED.
The break was a casual chat with my immediate boss who asked me to prepare her report in PREZI and when I asked where the data is for preparation, she said she'd have to call the heavens for the needed numbers. She reminded me that the presentation is on Friday but she has no data yet to share? These are the type of people I work with. At a blink of an eye she told me her observation of her favorite teacher. She praised a teacher my former students complained of being so strict. My boss actually admired the teacher's classroom management, one that involved students who were quiet and strictly followed rules. I have none to comment but to share my appreciation for teachers' individual differences. She wants all teachers to be like her favorite teacher, much similar to her. I left by saying these are opinions of an administrator and it is definitely far from what the kids believe.
My next class is my favorite because they are attentive although they are rowdy. I have appreciated that they are consciously aware now about how the food they eat greatly affects their behavior. I need no discipline to deal with kids. They appreciated whatever I share because it comes from the heart. My lesson on the first day of the year was about the simplest yet the most difficult first step to success-waking up early in the morning. Until my last class, all my students showed appreciation not just bringing me gifts they missed giving during the holidays but becuase they have given me honest answers unlike those pathetic drills they put up with everyday in their classes. Today I am so happy to have accomplished receiving honest answers contrary to what the administrators believe is more appropriate. I am happy with the nods and the gratitude especially to the seniors who were thoughtful giving me earrings and headband and another parent who gave perfume and other goodies. Thank you Dear Lord for the gift of appreciation.
The day ended with my most favorite calendar and more good news that will cheer me up for the week.
