Lauren

Posted on 10/20/09

On 10/15/09, help!! wrote:
> hi, I would love any advice anyone has:
> We have 8 kids in my MR class. 7 have been coming to school
> since day one. They are wonderful, delightful children. It
> has truly been a joy to come to work and teach them.
>
> One student did not start until this week because he was
> hospitalized for being aggressive at home over the summer.
> He is now in our class. He is rude, crude, disrespectful,
> and the principal already tried to get him to be elsewhere
> in the district (he is really to old for elementary at this
> point), but she was overruled.
>
> I am new to the school, but many of my colleagues know him.
> I have been told that home is troubled. He has older
> siblings who have been in trouble with the law and he looks
> to be headed that way.
>
> We are now stuck with this big drain on our class. He likes
> to blurt out bad words for no reason, goofs off and drags
> others down with him, acts like a monster in the playground
> and intimidates the other kids.
>
> The other kids in my class enjoyed my "Softie" disposition
> and I enjoyed it too. However this big bully sees it as an
> invitation to walk all over me.
>
> WHAT CAN I DO TO SAVE MY CLASS FROM THIS BAD APPLE??!?!
> THANK YOU!!!!!!!!

I would find his contact information. If the parents aren't
supportive, perhaps there is a grandparent who you could work
with to provide some support. Have high expectations in
writing. Have him sign a contract with you w/ parent
signature if possible. Give him a written copy of the rules
and expectations.Document every incident in detail..Find out
his interests and try to incorporate them into the lessons.
Does he enjoy computer time? Try to find something he is
interested in...Reinforce his good behavior with
praise...small items like a halloween pencil with eraser cap..
Write a Functional Behavior Assessment and a Behavior
Intervention Plan. Start collecting data for the FBA now.
You need to cover your bases in the event of a serious
incident. Most importantly, have a life outside of school.
Focus on your hobbies and interests to keep balanced.
Eat a healthy diet and get plenty of exercise. Read
inspirational books to maintain a positive attitude.

Lauren

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