Hello,

I had the para from "you know where" during my first year of
teaching. I let it make me miserable for a while, as it was a
constant struggle. She thought she was the teacher and that I
was the assistant. I remained professional, hoping that it
would work itself out, but it only got worse. Before I blew my
top, I decided we needed to visit about it. I told her what I
thought my duties were and what I thought her duties were.

She pouted, almost as bad as a kid, for a couple of days. Then,
she got over it. It was a little tense after the conversation,
but it was worth it in the long run.

In her defense, the teacher she worked with before really wasn't
into the job. So, she let the para do most of the work. Then I
come in, new and excited, and want to take charge. It was a big
change for her.

My advice, lay the line in the sand now. The sooner, the
better. Many times during that year I wish I had talked to her
about our roles before school even started. She can either deal
with it or not, that's her choice.

I feel your pain! Hang in there. You have worked too hard and
too long to let this ruin it for you. Easier said than done, I
know!

Good Luck!

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