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Kathleen/Moderator - We're about to being tonight's session of Teachers.Net Mentors Online, a meeting between new teachers and mentors.
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi Hal, we're having a lot of wind here, and power has been going off now and then. If I disappear, that will be the reason.
Mentor Hal - ditto here!!
Kathleen/Moderator - Mentors, you might log on with Mentor/ before your name (or M/ if the entire word mentor doesn't fit). New teachers should log on with grade level following their names, as in Jill/3 for Jill grade 3.
Buffy/sped - Hi all
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi Buffy, welcome to Mentors Online! How is your school year going so far?
Buffy/sped - Alright, I guess...
Mentor/Jan - Good evening, everyone!
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi bigbyrd, how are things going in your classroom?
Kathleen/Moderator - Introducing your Mentors: Mentor Hal Portner, former K-12 teacher & administrator, author of Mentoring New Teachers, Training Mentors Is Not Enough, and Being Mentored.
Buffy/sped - This is my first full year in Sped
Mentor Hal - Buffy, what do you mean by "I guess?"
bigbyrd - im actually not a teacher yet
bigbyrd - i am in school to become one though
Buffy/sped - I am working with BD kids...
Kathleen/Moderator - New teachers, we're anxious to hear about the trials and tribulations of being a new teacher (as though we've forgotten!
Mentor wizzle - Opps!
Buffy/sped - All of my kids come from bad homes
Kathleen/Moderator - ~Mentor Jan Fisher, veteran of 20 years in K-5 classrooms, Outstanding Educator in Orange County", CA, is now is a professional development specialist providing training and support in both management and instruction to new and veteran teachers, K-12, in several districts. She also works for the University of California, Irvine, where she teaches pre-service teachers about the intricacies of class management, and assists in coordinating the California Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment Program (BTSA).
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, what is working, and what is not working with your BD kids?
Mentor/Jan - bigbrd, are you student teaching?
bigbyrd - that is next semester
MagooMentor - Hi, sorry to be a tad late--WHERE'S THE CHEESECAKE ??
Kathleen/Moderator - ~Mentor Sheree "wizzlewolf" Rensel, NBPTS certified teacher With 21 years experience, with one year completed toward a Ph.D. in Educational Technology, active mentor to NBPTS candidates.
Buffy/sped - So far it has been trail and error.....My kids respond well to me (for the most part)
Kathleen/Moderator - Too busy for food until 9pmE
Mentor wizzle - I am back! Had to get my "fushia".
Mentor/Jan - Bigbyrd, that's great. You will get some inside info tonight
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, tell us more..
MagooMentor - Oh, I should 'fess up to the 'real' teachers here, I, the Magnificent Magoo, am a professional substitute, so my comments are based on that experience---this is my 9th year.
Kathleen/Moderator - ~Mentor "Magoo," professional substitute teacher who entered teaching at age 51, bringing with her years of life experience and down to earth perspective. Popular chatboard contributor, mentor.
Mentor/Jan - Cheesecake is eaten, Magoo. You were late!
bigbyrd - that is what i was hoping for
Buffy/sped - My kids act like they never had to do work in all their lives.. Like it is the first time they have been asked to do work
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, please tell the Mentors more about the age of your students so they can target their advice
Mentor/Jan - Buffy, what have you tried so far?
Mentor Hal - wizzle .. fushia becomes you (there's your cheesecake,
MagooMentor - Thank you, Kathleen.....check's in the mail.....
Buffy/sped - these kids are very explosive (last year, according to files) but this year only one has really gone off
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, do you work with Special Ed? What kind?
Buffy/sped - I have grades 4, 5,6
Buffy/sped - Wizzle, I have sped BD
MagooMentor - Buffy, I am subbing all this week in special ed---'Skill Center'---kids who need more help than Title, but are not severely anything.
Mentor wizzle - Oh thanks Hal, but you can have my cheesecake. I have to be careful about "computer rear end".
Buffy/sped - The boy who exploded last week as not come back to school...
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, how many in the class? Is it self-contained?
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, that is what I teach. I teach severely emotionally disturbed K-12
MagooMentor - Buffy, how many kids do you have total??
Buffy/sped - I ran into his mom and all she said was she would talk to me later
Buffy/sped - I have 5 on roll... 1 self-contained (but two on the way)
Buffy/sped - I keep my kids all morning (right now 5) but the other sped kids are rotated in and out of class
Buffy/sped - So the most I have at one time is 7
Kathleen/Moderator - Welcome to Teachers.Net Mentors Online! New teachers are invited to log to interact with veteran, mentor teachers. We suggest you include your grade level with your name in this format Name/2 if you are Mr. or Ms. Name currently teaching grade 2.
Mentor wizzle - Well Buffy, you hit is on the head. A lot of kids haven't worked. This is especially true if they have behavior disorders. However, it is great for you because you are going to teach them how to work.
Buffy/sped - does that make sense?? It does to me but I don't know if I explained it well
MagooMentor - I work only elem.---have one little guy this week, K, who is not a beh. prob, but who is NOT on this planet......probably FAS......they aren't sure.......
MagooMentor - Buffy, I may have missed this, but how long have you worked with sped kids??
Buffy/sped - My aide yells at them and demands for them to "act right
Buffy/sped - I don't agree with yelling at them
MagooMentor - OOOOOOOOO, aide yelling, not a good thing..........
Buffy/sped - This is my first year Magoo
Mentor wizzle - You have to give them choices. Of course all of the choices you give them will be something you need them to do. Let them choose. REMEMBER, you can't make them do anything. It has to be their choice.
Kathleen/Moderator - I suggest you set some groundrules for your assistant. No yelling is the first...
Buffy/sped - My aide is not helpful at all..... She should of retired years ago
Mentor/Jan - Buffy, is this an experienced aide?
Kathleen/Moderator - One adult is in charge...
MagooMentor - Buffy, has the aide been aiding for these kids for awhile or is this his/her first year also??
Mentor/Jan - Sometimes, it is hard for experienced aides to change. But, you are the teacher and will need to set the tone.
Buffy/sped - I found a website for behavior management and it said to remain calm with them so I copied it and put it in her box
Kathleen/Moderator - This is one of the most difficult situations for a new teacher: working with an assistant who is older, has been in the school for a long time.
Kathleen/Moderator - LOL Buffy, that's a good start, putting that in her box
Mentor wizzle - Jan, that is so true. Buffy, you might have to politely chat with the aide to let her know that you want your room to be peaceful and nonthreatening.
Buffy/sped - Magoo, I guess the teacher last year really lost her temper with them and the princ says that maybe that is why the aide does it
Mentor Hal - Now, Buffu, if she can only think outside the box - and change her approach . . .
Kathleen/Moderator - Keep sharing articles with her, it will communicate tactfully what you expect, but you might have to let her know you'll be watching her for the kinds of management the articles describe
Buffy/sped - She just hated it today b/c one of the most severe boys was off meds today and she said I babied the kids
MagooMentor - Buffy, are you a sweet young thing, or are you a grizzled old thing like me?? If you are a sweet young thing, I can understand why you would be reluctant to whack your aide......so to speak......but you are gonna have to sit down with her and lay down the law, as soon as you figure out what your law is.
Kathleen/Moderator - Welcome to Teachers.Net Mentors Online! New teachers are invited to log to interact with veteran, mentor teachers. We suggest you include your grade level with your name in this format Name/2 if you are Mr. or Ms. Name currently teaching grade 2.
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, you need to MODEL the adult behavior of your choice. If you are the teacher, you are the lead. You don't have to be confrontational with the aide. Speak with her and show her how it can work without yelling.
Mentor/Jan - I agree, Kathleen, it is very difficult. You may need to have the talk sooner rather than later so the situation gets squared away
Buffy/sped - When I am working with a group ... she will tell them to quiet down, and just butts in
Kathleen/Moderator - Give her a "suggestion pad" and let her write her suggestions in there, tell her you'll read and consider everything she suggests when you, as the teacher responsible for the class, decide how to manage the students.
Kathleen/Moderator - JC, welcome to Mentors Online. Are you a new teacher? If so, tell us about your class, and how things are going.
Buffy/sped - What do you do with the kids who refuses to acknowledge that you where talking to them
MagooMentor - Oh, fiddle, Buffy, just send her on a long complicated errand and then lock the door........don't you wish? Seriously, tho, you are getting some VERY good advice here.....
Buffy/sped - I have one boy who I have to repeat myself over and over again..
Buffy/sped -lol Magoo
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, Kathleen has the right idea. I have had aggressive aides and I speak with them and tell them what I need them to do. If they continue to "butt in" as you stated, I give them a job to do somewhere else. Keep them busy with other things and they won't be focusing on you and the class.
MagooMentor - Buffy, is this kid really no hearing you, or do you think he's rattling your cage??
Buffy/sped - This one kid.... Questions everything I do and ignores me all the time
MagooMentor - send the aide down to the workroom to cut a million 1-inch squares, so the kids can see what a million looks like..........
Mentor Hal - Buffy. Let's assume that the aide is trying to help you by shouting at the students. Tell her privately that you appreciate that, but that she can best help by keeping her cool and discussing tit with you later.
Buffy/sped - I have no idea Magoo.... I will repeat myself 4 or 5 times and finally he says " WHAT??" real hateful like
Buffy/sped - lol
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, have you tried putting him in charge of something, making him feel like a king pin in the room?
Mentor Hal - Whoops! Sorry for the typo
Mentor/Jan - Buffy, you need to decide what this student SHOULD do, and then teach him exactly what you expect.
Buffy/sped - I keep telling myself that she is just use to doing things her way
MagooMentor - Buffy, you could answer his ?s with ?s....if he says 'why.....?' you could say, well, you write down what YOU think the reason is, and you can print, and you don't have to worry about spelling, and if you get it right, you earn a XXXXXX (whatever)
Buffy/sped - Kathleen, I give him jobs and he refuses to do them... He will sit and eat his work
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, that can be solved very quickly. If you use reinforcements, take them out when the "non-hearing" boy is around. I bet he will hear you if he is going to get a reinforcement. Then you can open up lines of communication. Just before you give him the reinforcement, say something like "Oh, you can hear me now....hmmmm. Well, I guess we won't have a problem like that anymore!"
Kathleen/Moderator - JC, please tell us about your class
Mentor/Jan - Buffy, if you continue to repeat for him, he has no reason to listen the first time.
Kathleen/Moderator - Good point, Jan.
Buffy/sped - true
Kathleen/Moderator - Good points from everyone...
MagooMentor - ***smacking Hal's little wrists*** BAD boy, BAD boy!!
Kathleen/Moderator - Well, if he sits and eats his work, what happens next?
Buffy/sped - I have giving candy, free time, and we are having a pizza party friday for good behavior
Mentor wizzle - HAL! LOL
Kathleen/Moderator - freudian slip is all
Mentor/Jan - Buffy, you may want to let him know you will not be repeating. Prompt him before you give the directions, then give them. If he doesn't listen, he will suffer the consequences
MagooMentor - wizzle, does 'reinforcement' sometimes = 'bribe' ????? I do that sometimes.....
Mentor Hal - BIG BLUSH
Mentor/Jan - Good evening, Pam. Tell us about your class
MagooMentor - HI PAM!!
Buffy/sped - I didn't think about this before I announced the party but this non-hearing boys b-day is on Friday ... And he wasn't invited to the party b/c of bad behavior
Mentor Hal - hello, Pam
Buffy/sped - Should I let him come to the pizza party b/c it is his b-day or just not let him
Pam/5th - Hi, there. I teach two class of Language Arts- 2 and a half hours each. Things are basically going well, but I'm concerned about homework being turned in, and a few behavior problems.
Mentor wizzle - Oh I love kids like this!! They are my heart! This sounds like attention seeking behavior. I would ignore him and do tons of fun stuff with the class while he is munching away. I wouldn't even look at him. He will get very tired of the non-attention. If he does ONE thing you like, give him a huge compliment quick. The idea is start to give attention ONLY for positive behavior.
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, have you pulled him aside to discuss expectations, and to communicate your desire to have participate in the party on his birthday? And what do you know about his home life?
Pam/5th - hi all.
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi Pam, we're glad you came! Tell us more about your concerns related to homework being turned in and the behavior problems. How many in your class?
Buffy/sped - yes, and "he doesn't give a cra*"
Mentor wizzle - Magoo, in the SpEd world they call them reinforcements. I think "bribe" would be synonomous!
Mentor/Jan - Pam, what has been going well for you...or not so well, as the case may be lol
Mentor Hal - good advice, wizzle. Catch him doing something right, Buffy.
Mentor wizzle - However, with severe BD or SED kids, you just have to start somewhere to modify behavior.
MagooMentor - Buffy, I get the feeling you are feeling like a hamster in the wheel........running like crazy.........you could try coming up with a few hard and fast rules, making a BIG poster of them for the room, talking with your aide about them also, and then focus on the ONE behavior prob in the entire class that is just driving you up the walls.......I'm afraid if you try to 'solve' all of them before Thanksgivine, we'll find you huddled in a corner, slobbering and whimpering............
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, set the smallest expectation possible, and the first time he responds as you expect, go all out with positive feedback, and announce that he's earned the right to attend the party.
Buffy/sped - I really enjoy working with all of them... I am learning so much... I am taking master classes for sped
Pam/5th - I have 32 in my morning class and 29 in my afternoon class. Homework is apparently always a problem at our school. But yesterday I repeated about seven times that I expected the rough draft we turned in to be at least one page. Half of my morning class did not follow directions and about 1/3 of my afternoon class. So frustrating!
Kathleen/Moderator - Celebrate every TINY success
MagooMentor - I can't spel.......
Kathleen/Moderator - Pam, your classes are very large. How long have the kids been back after summer break?
Pam/5th - They've been back 2 and half weeks.
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, Oh these are great kids to work with. I have kids that were just brutal when they first started at my school. It is wonderful to see how you can really make a big difference in their lives.
Mentor/Jan - This is not unusual, Pam! What homework policy do you have?
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, he has to EARN that pizza party...but you can help that happen
MagooMentor - Pam, come up with some sort of truly wonderful REINFORCEMENTfor the kids who DID do their work, and let the rest 'suffer'.........
Pam/5th - My homework policy is that they have to stay in for recess to finish homework that isn't completed. Twice in a week and I send a note home or call.
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, do you have a mentor assigned to you at school?
Pam/5th - Today, we did an art project. Those who hadn't completed homework did homework instead of completing the project.
Mentor Hal - Pam. One strategy is to have one or two students repeat back to you in their own words what they understand the homework assignment to be, Then clarify if necessary.
MagooMentor - Pam, but if they stay in, do you lose your 'break' ???
Kathleen/Moderator - Pam, that sounds like punishment for you, and might be counterproductive to deny those kids some running around time, compounding the problem
Mentor wizzle - Pam, does staying in at recess help?
Buffy/sped - I have heard horror stories about last year... When I tell anyone how well it is going they just tell me not to get excited they will show themselves... or people just look at me and tell me they are sorry the I got this class
Mentor wizzle - Pam, no art project , that sounds GOOD!
Pam/5th - Well, I have a partner teacher that I send students to, but if there are too many, I don't feel comfortable doing that, so, yeah.
Buffy/sped - Yes, Magoo... Like today the boy was off meds so I had him all day not planning no lunch w/out kids
Lurking Only - Buffy, Bill Page here. Let me offer a bottom line, though philosophical approach to consider: First, relationship is crucial. Whatever you can do to show him you care! Take both of his hands as you talk to him. Get your face on his level. Stay in his face as he turns away. Persist. and be patient. it will take a long time to show him you really care what he does and what is happening. Remember that about 90% of the message is non verbal. (I was lurking only, but couldnt resist a comment.)
MagooMentor - Hal, I like that.....nobody ever told me that before......but, then, subs are considered a sub-species........
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, regardless of what others have done, or what happened in the past, you have what it takes to get this thing under control
Pam/5th - Basically, it's the same few kids who seem to be staying in so far, so probably losing recess isn't helpful to them.
Mentor/Jan - Pam, you might try some choices. For example, today with the art. Say, would you rather do your homework during art or stay after school? Put the responsibility for homework on the students by giving some choices.
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, don't listen to that. Even if you have the worse class, the potential for growth for your kids is higher. You have to believe they will be the greatest class by the end of the year. You have that power!
Mentor/Jan - You're right, Pam. Losing recess may be a reward. It is for many kids!
Kathleen/Moderator - Mentor Bill Page, veteran educator, teacher-trainer, staff development specialist, monthly contributor to the Teachers.Net Gazette
Kathleen/Moderator - THE TRANSCRIPT OF THIS CHAT WILL BE ARCHIVED
Pam/5th - Jan, I've been reading your posts on the management board, and I've been trying using choices for behavior. I could try that for the homework as well. (still getting used to it, so I'm not doing very well yet.)
MagooMentor - Lurky, I like your idea, but if Buffy takes the hands of a junior high boy, isn't she asking for possible probs??
Kathleen/Moderator - Bill, no need to lurk! Log on with your name and help us without that mask on!
Buffy/sped - I am glad I have these kids really!! I enjoy the kids and love it.... Even though the aide tells everyone that I let the kids get by with too much and I give them too much attention
MagooMentor - Pam, lots of kids don't like recess anyway.....I was stunned when I finally figured that one out.......
Mentor/Jan - Pam, I think choices will really help. Teachers often take the responsibility for homework so the kids don't bother.
Pam/5th - That's what I'm seeing. I always have girls coming up to me asking me if they can help me during recess or before school.
Kathleen/Moderator - Repeating Bill Page's advice (it moved quickly off the screen): First, relationship is crucial. Whatever you can do to show him you care! Take both of his hands as you talk to him. Get your face on his level. Stay in his face as he turns away. Persist. and be patient. it will take a long time to show him you really care what he does and what is happening. Remember that about 90% of the message is non verbal.
MagooMentor - AAAAAAAAARRRRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHH!!!!! Buffy, you are a better gal than I, Gunga Din, I'd have WORDS with an aide who told others her opinion of my work!!!!!!!!!!
Mentor/Jan - Besides, the kids NEED recess. And, so does the teacher
Kathleen/Moderator - But the ones who want to stay for recess probably aren't the ones losing recess, right?
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, BD kids NEED lots of attention. However, you have to be very careful to give attention to those who are doing the right things, being on task, cooperating. Don't let those with the inappropriate behavior get your attention for long.
Pam/5th - Jan- I do totally agree with that. I just feel like if I don't do something I will never get any homework.
Kathleen/Moderator - Sometimes even those girls who want to stay in with teacher should go outdoors.
Buffy/sped - She told me that herself in front of the principal.... I told the princ that you couldn't give these kids too much positive attention
MagooMentor - I think Lurky Bill's advice is very good, I'm just not sure about the hands part......
Buffy/sped - I agree Bill
Mentor/Jan - Pam, talk to the kids with the homework problem. Ask them to help solve it. "How will you handle this?" Put them in charge of a solution, but let them know there must be a solution!
Kathleen/Moderator - New teachers are invited to log to interact with veteran, mentor teachers. We suggest you include your grade level with your name in this format Name/2 if you are Mr. or Ms. Name currently teaching grade 2.
Pam/5th - Kathleen-absolutely right. The girls who want to help never get in trouble. I do have one boy who's always asking me to help him who has a problem with shouting out. We have weird rules right now about not being able to keep kids after school right now to help.
MagooMentor - I never let kids stay in for recess....if they do, I don't get to go to the bathroom......can't leave them in the room........
Mentor wizzle - Pam, I think you are on the right track. It may take time, but if you give the homework doers something fun to do and make those without homework do it instead of the fun thing, things will change. It just may take a little more time.
Pam/5th - Jan- in my afternoon class, it's usually so many! Have a talk with each one individually?
Lurking Only - Bill Page to Magoo: Good point. She would have to be careful about the hands. As a 300 lb, old man I have never had to worry about that.
Mentor/Jan - Pam, again it's a choice. "Would you rather do your homework at lunch or after school?" The message is they won't be leaving until work is finished.
Buffy/sped - I know that one Magoo....... Especially if one is off meds I don't get a break at all
MagooMentor - I am learning a lot here this evening.........
Kathleen/Moderator - IF you make staying in for recess ONCE IN A WHILE a *reward* then you can use that time to do some relationship-building, make the boy feel important and cherished in a way he might not have experienced before. Then he will be eating out of your hand.
MagooMentor - Lurky Bill, these days, ALL of us must be careful!!
Mentor/Jan - Pam, maybe the whole class can have a discussion. Let some share how they manage to get their homework done. Have a group problem solving session. Let the kids know you are there to help and support them BUT the homework must be done.
Pam/5th - Kathleen-- I really like that idea. That would go over well with him.
Kathleen/Moderator - I hope there are other new teachers out there who will log on to allow us an opportunity to feel important.
Mentor/Jan - Brainstorm solutions. Have the kids choose one that works for them. Give them some buy-in.
Kathleen/Moderator - Pam, ARE you fearful of being too demanding, too structured?
MagooMentor - Buffy---if a kid comes to you off meds, for whatever reason, is the school allowed to (1) call the parent to get the meds to the kid, or (2) send the kid home (or to parent at work) because they are not on their meds??? I worked in a district that had that policy.
Pam/5th - Jan-- that sounds good, as well. I'm in a really poor area with low test scores. I've already talked to them about how I can help them, but I have to see them trying on their homework or my help isn't as valuable.
Mentor wizzle - Magoo, there are different philosophies about this kind of stuff. I agree with you. You have to be very careful and be aware of the type of kids you are working with. Many of my kids would totally freak out if I even gestured to touch them or get in their face. That is a total no no with some SED kids.
Mentor Hal - excellent suggestion, Jan et al.
Mentor/Jan - It's important for the kids to see you as on their side. Yes, you know homework can be a bummer sometimes. You are there to help them find the most efficient way possible.
Pam/5th - I think I am really demanding and really structured right now. My team teacher is much more of a free spirit, but she also screams at the kids when they don't follow directions.
Kathleen/Moderator - Don't be afraid to be an idealist, just know how to get there with your kids.
Lurking Only - You are dealing with attitude. Thant requires two things: first your own attitude; however hard it is to control your own attitude, it is essential. Second You have to help him see it differently. That get us back to relationship and your ability to SHOW him you care about him, not just his behaving.
Mentor/Jan - Pam, have you read "Love and Logic?"
Pam/5th - I have it. It was on my summer reading list, but I didn't get all the way through it.
Buffy/sped - Magoo, We have been lucky the parents have called each time (so far) to tell us they don't have meds... they one today we ( I ) was worried b/c he is violent!! But most of the times we can't get in touch with parents..
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, are YOU afraid of being too structured?
MagooMentor - wizzle, I am the World's Best Hugger, actually, and have had to work VERY hard to control my natural hugging instincts. But--every single teacher I know these days says Be Careful, esp. with 4th and above........so I 'high-5' 'em instead........which is tough sometimes, because so many of the kids NEED hugs!!!!
Kathleen/Moderator - And why aren't they getting their meds?
Mentor wizzle - Pam, you know another idea is to link the homework to something fun the next day. For example, I have given homework that cooresponds to a project we are doing. If they don't do the project and are unprepared, they don't get to participate.
Kathleen/Moderator - good suggestion, wizzle
Mentor/Jan - Pam, you have to do what is comfortable for you. Conistency is important. Building relationships is important. Setting high expectations are important.
Kathleen/Moderator - (I like all suggestions I've read so far!)
Buffy/sped - No, Kathleen... I am just too unsure of myself... I am not certified in sped and always doubting myself
Pam/5th - I've tried that. I guess my other main problem is my curriculum. I teach Open Court and I feel like I'm killing myself to try and get through what I need to every day. (I'm behind already.)
Buffy/sped - Kathleen, sometimes they forget to take meds or they have run out
Mentor wizzle - Magoo, me too! I am a very touchy feely person and it makes it hard because I am only 4' 8" tall. A lot of kids think I am an old kid. However, I know to wait to understand each child before I even think of reaching out to them. My kids are violent sometimes.
MagooMentor - It just really drives me nuts to hear a teacher or an aide....or anybody, for that matter....holler at a kid.........unless, of course, the kid is in danger.
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, with that assistant nagging at you, I can understand your discomfort. But it's obvious you have the right ideas.
Buffy/sped - Wizzle, I patted my off meds kid today (which the social worker says is a no, no) I was so afraid he would get upset but no reation out of him
Mentor/Jan - Pam, right now when you are trying to establish a management system, you will get behind in the curriculum. Take time to set rules and procedures. You will make up the lost curriculum time later once kids know the expectations.
MagooMentor - wizzle, I AM an 'old kid' !!! pushing 60 on the calendar, but about 8-9 inside!!
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, have you experienced a "Med Holiday"? That is when we have a vacation and the student comes back having not taken meds for a week or two. OH BOY, is that FUN!
Mentor/Jan - Rule #1 in management - take the TIME to teach rules and procedures!
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy and Pam be sure to e-mail me to enter the drawing for a book, put NEW TEACHER in the subject line, send to kathleen@teachers.net
Buffy/sped - Kathleen, she doesn't follow my lesson plans and just does what she wants.... When I say something to her ... she looks at me like I am stupid.... I have almost gotten to the point where I won't say anything at all b/c she makes me feel stupid
Buffy/sped - No wizzle... not yet
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, you need to take this problem to your administrator.
Pam/5th - Jan- I know. I'm not sure my principal remembers that though. I have taken time to set up my procedures and I think my kids are getting the hang of them. My morning class is doing a bit better than the afternoon, and so the afternoon is even further behind. (We had to line up outside the room 4 times yesterday.) I'm sure they think they are being that bad (and they aren't) but I want to make sure I don't have problems later.
Mentor/Jan - Give the kids thing to do that do not require a lot of teaching on your part. YOU teach procedures, monitor behavior, give feedback on performance. Make that YOUR objective for at least the first 3 weeks.
MagooMentor - Buffy---Greak Honk, girl, they put you in charge of a tough bunch and you aren't 'really' sped??? I hope they are paying you handsomely, hahahahaha.........lissen, girlfriend, Rule #1: TRUST YOUR GUT INSTINCTS. I think, from what you've said here tonight, that you probably have pretty good guts....just TRUST YOURSELF and close your little ears to those who try to shoot you down.
Kathleen/Moderator - I meant, Buffy take the problem with the assistant to the admin
Mentor/Jan - Perfect, Pam. It will pay off in spades!
Buffy/sped - LOL @ paying handsomely
MagooMentor - Buffy, also, I agree---talk with your principal about this aide........maybe they are looking for a reason to--ahhhh- let her go.......
Mentor/Jan - Pam, Open Court should keep the kids involved and active. That is very helpful to management.
MagooMentor - Pam doesn't want to be paid in spades, she'd rather have cash, I bet
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, you need to take charge. Your assistant can think or do whatever, but she can't make you feel stupid or anything else. You are in charge of the way you feel and how you run your class. You have to believe yourself to be the leader.
Pam/5th - Here is another question. It seems like such a little thing, but I have such a hard time when I'm teaching to remember the little things I need to do. Like taking attendance (I can't have kids do it because we do it on the computer) sending kids to RSP, etc. My secretary hates me right now because my attendance is always late.!
MagooMentor - sorry........flip attitude due to LACK OF CHEESECAKE........
Pam/5th - Magoo-absolutely!
Isabelle - Pam-I'm the same-I forgot the pledge today!
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, bring all of your college texts in and pile them on your desk. That will remind your assistant (and you) that you are the one prepared for this responsibility
Mentor/Jan - Also, Pam, know that the first month is always difficult. Take time EVERY day, to jot down 5 things that went well before you reflect on what didn't. Then build on your strengths.
Buffy/sped - (
MagooMentor - hi, Isabelle---------whatcha teach???
Pam/5th - Isabelle-- I'm glad it's not just me!
Mentor Hal - hello, Isabelle
Isabelle - I am only student teaching, but I started full time today already and its only my 2nd week!!
Isabelle - 4th grade
Kathleen/Moderator - I agree with Jan's point, the first month is difficult for even veteran teachers, don't be discouraged, Buffy and Pam.
Pam/5th - Jan-- I started doing that yesterday!!! I was feeling a little stressed and decided I should do that.
MagooMentor - I LOVE FOURTH GRADE !!
Mentor/Jan - Pam, do you have sponge activities ready for the kids to do while you take care of the "administrivia?"
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi Isabelle, welcome to Mentors Online!
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi Isabelle, welcome to Mentors Online!
Isabelle - sponge activities???
Mentor Hal - Isablle, how's it going so far?
MagooMentor - Isabelle, I am a professional sub, and I truly just love 4th graders
Isabelle - thank you Kathleen
Mentor wizzle - Pam, Jan's advice about reflection is EXCELLENT. You need to get into the habit of seeing all the little things that went well. Even after years of teaching, it is so easy to get caught in the eye of the storm and not realize what you have accomplished. Keep a journal of reflection.
Isabelle - Mentor-so far I feel like a chicken running around with my head cut off!!
Kathleen/Moderator - Sponge, or bellwork, something the kids are engaged in while you perform other duties
MagooMentor - Jan, whatsa 'sponge activity' ??? Sounds...wet....
Buffy/sped - Thanks all
Mentor/Jan - Hi, Isabelle.
Pam/5th - Jan-- they do journal writing as soon as they come in in the morning. The problem is, I've been checking homework during that time. Today I got so caught up in discussing homework with them, that I got an angry call at 9:05. (Due in at 9:00)
Kathleen/Moderator - Isabelle, yup, that's what the first days and weeks are like. I remember it well.
Isabelle - My co-op teacher says I'm doing fine, but I need to work on the little things involving discipline, and planning is taking FOREVER!!! I'm just so indecisive of what I should do
MagooMentor - Isabelle, that's because, right now, you ARE a chicken running around w/o a head........the beginnings of ST are like that
Mentor wizzle - Oh Isabelle. I PROMISE you it will get better every day!
Isabelle - he he
Kathleen/Moderator - Isabelle, discipline, or management?
Mentor/Jan - Sponge activities will save your life. They are short activities that the kids engage in first thing. They generally are activities designed to practice or process something already taught. Review.
Mentor wizzle - Hear, Hear Magoo!!!
Isabelle - ya, other student teachers are only doing spelling and DOL right now, but I figure, this will give me plenty of time to develop my own style (while still under someone's supervision)
MagooMentor - BUFFY, GOOD LUCK !! Remember, stand up tall, chin out, cop an attitude, YOU ARE THE TEACHER, you'll have that aide kissing your feet in no time
Buffy/sped - lol.... I hope so Magoo
Mentor/Jan - Pam, that is the "new teacher syndrome" Make a list of the things to do first thing. Or, put it on the board. It will become routine, but, for now, a list will help.
Isabelle - Kathleen-I would probably say managment is what I need to work on-just better transitioning, feeling more confident that its MY classroom and I"m in control
Mentor wizzle - Yes Buffy, Yes!! TAKE CHARGE in a nice, but forceful way.
Pam/5th - Also, is it normal to think about teaching every minute of every day?
Buffy/sped - LOL pam I dream about it ... I can't escape it
Kathleen/Moderator - Isabelle, do you read the classroom management chatboard here? And the Teachers.Net Gazette articles on classroom managment?
MagooMentor - Oh, fiddle, REVIEW......'sponge' is a fancy word for 'keepingthekidsbusywhileIdosomething' sheesh.......I need a refresher course in Teacherese.......
Pam/5th - Jan-- I will try that. I need something to remind me. Amazingly, I've sent my RSP student on time every day, but purely by chance.
Isabelle - Pam-that' smy question too-I hardly ate my lunch cause I was working, I thought about planning on the drive home and I've been working on it all night!!! AAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!
Mentor wizzle - Pam, it is if you want to do that. I have been teaching for over twenty years and I think about teaching all day and all night. (But I like it that way.)
Isabelle - I'll check it out Kathleen
Kathleen/Moderator - Pam,in the beginning it is normal. But make time for yourself on weekends.
Pam/5th - Buffy-- you too? I wake up and try to make myself think of something else!
Mentor/Jan - Pam, you'd better believe it. This is my 34th year, and I STILL think about it from morning till night!
Kathleen/Moderator - I never ate lunch, except walking around stuffing something while doing work
Pam/5th - Jan-- wow! I'm starting to worry myself.
Buffy/sped - Yes, Last year when I subbed I argued with kids in my sleep
Isabelle - I was thinking so much about it, I wasn't even hungry at lunch time-that's a first!! And I didn't have time to notice how tired I was after 6 hours of sleep!
Kathleen/Moderator - Teachers.Net Beginning Teachers Chatboard and mailring: http://teachers.net/mentors/beginning_teachers/
Mentor wizzle - I stil eat lunch while I am working on the computer or writing lesson plans.
Buffy/sped - I have lost 5 pounds since the beginning of school
MagooMentor - Buffy, take charge in a forceful way and leave the being nice for later on..........you need to get that aide in line, girl, or she's gonna drive you nuts......ooooo, lemme atter, I love a challenge!!
Isabelle - I'll be there daily Kathleen!!
Isabelle - I have a specific question to help me plan for tomorrow...
Mentor/Jan - We tell our new teachers...leave every day by a certain time (you decide when). Take at least one weekend day for yourself. You cannot work all the time or you will burn out.
Pam/5th - Isabelle-- I lost 6 and a half pounds my first week of school. And it was only a 4 day week.
Isabelle - *me too buffy!*
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, I wish I could do that! I start gaining weight during the school year (That darn snack machine! Agggghhhhh!)
Lurking Only - To Isabelle, Pam and Buffy; Check out my article in the August Gazette: Teachers.net/Gazdette/AUG02/page.html The article gives a brief bit of help on 26 different things from motivation and attitude to self discipline.
Kathleen/Moderator - Do you have Harry Wong's book, First Days of School? It will help with estabishing procedures. His articles are all linked here: http://teachers.net/gazette/wong.html
MagooMentor - ***sticking tongue out at Buffy, who has lost wt***
Mentor/Jan - IMPORTANT** Spend some time in the faculty lounge. You need to collaborate with others.
Buffy/sped - I have two
Pam/5th - Jan-- We have to leave by 4:30. They kick us out because there's a gang down the street. I am grading papers tonight and my weekend was strictly teacher stuff.
Mentor Hal - Pam. Its diffiucult to establish a healthy, safe and nurturing classroom if you yourself are not centered. Take care of yourself and it will be e3asier to take care of your teaching.
Isabelle - My co-op teacher wants me to split reading into 2 groups-1 group reading stories about Paul Bunyan and the other doing a silent activity. I Know what they need to be doing, but how do I set it up? I mean do I explain both jobs and have them go there separate ways or do I get one started and then go the other to explain?
Kathleen/Moderator - Bill Page's article (one of many) http://teachers.net/gazette/AUG02/page.html
Buffy/sped - We don't have a teachers lounge
Mentor/Jan - Spend at least half your lunch hour in the lounge. That's where the news is passed around.
MagooMentor - IT IS 6:00 OUT HERE AND JAN SAID SHE'D BRING CHEESECAKE AND I DON'T SEE ANY !!
Kathleen/Moderator - I recommend Hal Portner's book, Being Mentored
Kathleen/Moderator - Can you believe the hour is over???
Isabelle - I'v enoticed that the lounge is a bit negative-gossip, bad stories
MagooMentor - YES, newbies, you must spend some time wherever the teachers eat, or they will talk about you......serious.....
Buffy/sped - I don't have lunch duties b/c if my kids are wild I get them and other times I have to wonder around the school to keep an eye on them.. so I don't get lunch
Kathleen/Moderator - New teachers, e-mail me kathleen@teachers.net and I'll enter you in the drawing for Diary of a Teacher's First Year!
Isabelle - the hour is over?? Shoot, I'm on the wrong time-I just got in here!
Mentor/Jan - Do not spend all your time grading papers. Spot check---throw some out---monitor while the kids are working
Mentor wizzle - Buffy, I included the "nice" word because I know from experience that some more experience (older) aides would be put off by confrontation. You might make things worse if you go in there and seem pushy. Just take charge with a smile. Like the "flies with honey" approach.
Kathleen/Moderator - I could never make myself spend lunch time in the lounge
Mentor Hal - Join us again tomorrow, Isabelle.
MagooMentor - Just sit and eat and smile and LISTEN....you will learn things they don't teach you in college.........
Pam/5th - I like all the 5th grade teachers, and I have been eating with them (my school is only 4th and 5th grade so our breaks are together.) Interesting thing: my principal partnered me with my team teacher and I'm starting to see that she may not be the one to collaborate with. Other teachers seem not to like her (she's disorganized, unhelpful) and she's already been written up this year for screaming at our kids.
Mentor/Jan - I'll see you on the chatboard!
Kathleen/Moderator - This 9-10 hour is the Elem and Middle grade chat time, no need to hurry away
MagooMentor - wizzle, you are nicer than I am.........
Kathleen/Moderator - Thank you all mentors!!!! You are truly superb people!
Buffy/sped - Thanks ALL (((((((((((((((((((((( Thanks )))))))))))))))))))))))))))
Isabelle - oh-so I don't have to leave yet?
MagooMentor - ***sticking tongue out at Jan***
Kathleen/Moderator - Buffy, Pam, Isabelle, I'd be happy to teach next door to all of you!
Pam/5th - Thank you to everyone for all the great advice! I appreciate it!
Mentor/Jan - It's been fun!
Kathleen/Moderator - National Association of Beginning Teachers http://www.beginningteachers.org/
Mentor wizzle - Magoo, I doubt that. I just know how to play the game with different rules.
Mentor/Jan - Magoo, I ate the cheesecake!
Buffy/sped - Thanks for all the good advice and for lending an ear
Kathleen/Moderator - There will be another Mentors Online session tomorrow, 8-9pmE. and Friday, too!
Isabelle - Kathleen-I'm emailing you right now!!
MagooMentor - Buffy, Pam, Isabelle--------LISTEN TO YOUR GUTS, TAKE TIME FOR YOURSELF, AND DON'T BELIEVE EVERYTHING THEY TELL YOU IN TEACHER SCHOOL.
Mentor Hal - Night, all!
Isabelle - Did anyone have advice on my question??
Kathleen/Moderator - an ear, a shoulder, whatever it takes, we're here for you
Mentor/Jan - Night, everyone....
Kathleen/Moderator - Teachers.Net Beginning Teachers Chatboard and mailring: http://teachers.net/mentors/beginning_teachers/
Buffy/sped - Night
Mentor wizzle - Good Luck NEW teachers!! It will get better and better every day!
Kathleen/Moderator - Beginning Teachers Toolbox: http://www.inspiringteachers.com
MagooMentor - wizzle.......'RULES' ???????? There are 'rules'?????
Kathleen/Moderator - Thank you, thank you, thank you, all!
Kathleen/Moderator - This transcript will be archived http://teachers.net/archive
MagooMentor - I had WAY too much iced tea today.......caffine has made me crazed.......
Mentor/Jan - Say, goodnight, Magoo
Mentor wizzle - Magoo, sure there are rules. Haven't you heard "Life is a Game"?
MagooMentor - I shall go now, and try to calm down......my life is ruined because of no cheesecake this evening......alas.......
MagooMentor - Good night, Magoo........
Mentor wizzle - Gotta go now. I am dog sick with a cold. I was great fun tonight! Thanks for the terrific chat!
MagooMentor - Stella----I love that name!!!
Kathleen/Moderator - Feel better soon, wizzle, thanks!
Mentor wizzle - I meant IT WAS GREAT FUN. I am not that conceited! LOL
MagooMentor - leaving now........wizzle, take care of you!!
Kathleen/Moderator - Hi Stella, are you here for the elem/middle chat?
Kathleen/Moderator - Bye Magoo!
Mentor wizzle - Ta TA for now!!
Isabelle - Kathleen-what do you teach?
Kathleen/Moderator - Oh good, Isabelle is here to chat with Stella. I have to log off and drop some more names in the hat for my drawing.I see an entry from Isabell... Goodnight!
Isabelle - thanks Kathleen!
Kathleen/Moderator - Isabelle, I've retired early from teaching kindergarten for most of my 28 years. Started with grades 5 & 6.
Kathleen/Moderator - I work for Teachers.Net and for a writer, and an editor and writer.
Kathleen/Moderator - Isabelle, see if you can get Stella to chat with you, I have to move on to other things. Thanks and goodnight!
