Although I’m nearing 40, this is only my second year of teaching. I was fortunate enough to land myself a wonderful position in a middle school, with a terrific administration, staff and student-body. The principal runs her ship as a well-oiled machine – she provides her staff with just the right amount of comfort while still commanding a position of authority.
My principal “backed” me when I had an “uncomfortable” incident with a student this school year. Last June, the chaotic last month of any teacher’s school year, I gave a book to a student that was recommended by another student. I was just plain thrilled to see that this student would be reading over the summer! I briefly read the back of the book and deemed it “okay” for summer reading. BIG MISTAKE.
The youngster’s mom came to the school in the first week of September to complain to my principal that the material I lent was “inappropriate.” Well, after a heads-up by the student, I thoroughly checked out the book I had lent. The mom was right. It was incredibly “inappropriate.” Not only wasn’t it on the NYC DOE’s recommended reading list, it was 50% SMUT! I put my tail between my legs, took my punishment, and vowed to NEVER, EVER to give a book to a student that I hadn’t personally read!
I know enough to realize that if this were a Long Island school, chances are that the principal would have had no choice but to side with the parent and deem my decision unforgivable. My principal, although a “tough-cookie” of an administrator, never let me fear for my position. I think she understood my ignorance and explained my “mistake” as a “rookie” error.
Truth is, between you and I, I think my principal realized how important my newfound career was to me. I think she saw the good that was coming out of my classroom. Ultimately, the children WERE learning then and are even more engaged now!
