>Every day my 5th-8th graders teach me how NOT to teach art. This year
>has been a really difficult transition but things are going a little
>better now.
Maggie:
I believe this is part of your official "first year to get to know the
teacher" stuff. I wouldn't back down.
Not that I believe the pencils are such a big deal, but from what you've
written before, I believe this is part and parcel of the students getting
to know you. Maybe you could back off the five-minute lunch demerit and do
something a little more consequential, as has been suggested by other
posts. Maybe you could have them sharpen those golf pencils for you! Or
stay for a minute after class to collect pencils?
It took me four years before I really started enjoying middle school
students, and now (at sixth year of teaching) I'm amazed at watching their
maturation process. Hope you're enjoying your sinks! Know that some of
your students are enjoying the heck out of your teaching, and that you're
establishing a reputation for cool projects, good humor and being a caring
teacher.
