Educators with PRIDE Unite

bkisbutchenuff · 08-09-2012, 06:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by spritzerJ

A very funny friend of mine said she'd have...
1. tazer
2. valium
3. flask
4. get of jail free cards

in her pencil box. Love how she reminds me I am taking this too seriously!

LMBO....where I'm at - perfect...

bkisbutchenuff · 08-09-2012, 06:52 PM

Well...I'm just tired. What a long day...I need to do some paperwork...but don't think I can tonight. Five minutes before open House, which we had to have in the Gym (because of construction), we were told - by the way - you will have no access to your rooms tomorrow (because of construction)...Really???? So now I have to work Sat. GGRRR! Tomorrow, we are getting bussed to a forced pep rally...followed by a whole afternoon of mandated meetings....

Wish I could say I feel better from venting...but I don't really...

Martina · 08-09-2012, 07:19 PM

By Tuesday, I will have had seven full days of meetings at six different locations. Blah. Tired and losing steam, and I haven't done a lick of work to actually prepare to do my job.

We listened to an executive from a major -- MAJOR -- tech company talk to us today. She had NOTHING new to say except that tech needs prepared grads. No shit.

The free pastries don't even make me feel better anymore. I never thought I'd turn my nose up at an apricot danish.

One funny funny awesome thing was that they got an eighth grader who looked more like a 10 year old get up and give us a pep talk. The kid was ON FIRE. I mean amazing. Sweet, funny, real, and just so good at public speaking. We all wanted to adopt him.

I saw my classroom. Pretty much a pit. Starting from scratch again. Whine.

Oh and I don't care how nice they are in real life and how much better they are than the asshole at the other school, all administrators suck. They are so cavalier about the things that matter to you. Re a much needed printer so that we won't have to disturb another class to pick up our printing, she says, "OH, I think D was going to order that. He said he was. But I think he forgot." No phone service -- again we have to interrupt another class. No computers yet. No passwords for the web application to create IEPs. No keys ordered. Re the fact that there are NO translators for Special Education (for IEP's), she is just like, oh well. There are only two for the entire -- large -- district. Yes, we put kids first. Sigh. I was so enthusiastic until the endless days of meetings beat me down and until I saw what it looks like on the ground. What gets me about this administrator is that she used to be a Sped teacher. What happens to them when they get that degree and move into Administration? Body snatched or something.

And our union is sooo in love with administration. I have never been anywhere like that. Today was my first day with veteran teachers, and . . . oh well, it's just like anyplace else. You have to fight to be able to do your job. Any other profession, your bosses understand it's their job to give you the tools and the information you need to perform.

I remember once asking a principal for a teacher's edition of a textbook. His response: "Good luck with that."

ruthie14 · 08-09-2012, 07:53 PM

My gift has been early childhood education. I love it dearly. However, at 50 years old, I wish I had gone to college for the older grades. You all are very blessed!!

Have a wonderful school year!!

Ruthie

spritzerJ · 08-09-2012, 08:07 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ruthie14

My gift has been early childhood education. I love it dearly. However, at 50 years old, I wish I had gone to college for the older grades. You all are very blessed!!

Have a wonderful school year!!

Ruthie

Bless you for teaching the wee ones. I don't know about older. I have 1st/2nd graders this coming year. Older= bigger boogers.

spritzerJ · 08-09-2012, 08:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Martina

By Tuesday, I will have had seven full days of meetings at six different locations. Blah. Tired and losing steam, and I haven't done a lick of work to actually prepare to do my job.
By far one of the worst things about prep days, the lack of prep!

We listened to an executive from a major -- MAJOR -- tech company talk to us today. She had NOTHING new to say except that tech needs prepared grads. No shit. Why am I not shocked? I've yet to listen to a business person say something not redundant or self serving when talking to teachers.

The free pastries don't even make me feel better anymore. I never thought I'd turn my nose up at an apricot danish. LMAO! probably no actual fruit in it!

One funny funny awesome thing was that they got an eighth grader who looked more like a 10 year old get up and give us a pep talk. The kid was ON FIRE. I mean amazing. Sweet, funny, real, and just so good at public speaking. We all wanted to adopt him. And finally inspiration for why you are really there.

I saw my classroom. Pretty much a pit. Starting from scratch again. Whine. Rebuild the temple.

Oh and I don't care how nice they are in real life and how much better they are than the asshole at the other school, all administrators suck. They are so cavalier about the things that matter to you. Re a much needed printer so that we won't have to disturb another class to pick up our printing, she says, "OH, I think D was going to order that. He said he was. But I think he forgot." No phone service -- again we have to interrupt another class. No computers yet. No passwords for the web application to create IEPs. No keys ordered. Re the fact that there are NO translators for Special Education (for IEP's), she is just like, oh well. There are only two for the entire -- large -- district. Yes, we put kids first. Sigh. I was so enthusiastic until the endless days of meetings beat me down and until I saw what it looks like on the ground. What gets me about this administrator is that she used to be a Sped teacher. What happens to them when they get that degree and move into Administration? Body snatched or something. Mandatory Administrative Lobotomy may explain it. And you know there is no reason for late paperwork right? Yes you can kick me...

And our union is sooo in love with administration. I have never been anywhere like that. Today was my first day with veteran teachers, and . . . oh well, it's just like anyplace else. You have to fight to be able to do your job. Any other profession, your bosses understand it's their job to give you the tools and the information you need to perform.

I remember once asking a principal for a teacher's edition of a textbook. His response: "Good luck with that."

Thank you for the preview of my week next week.
Today I had lunch with 2 coworkers. We discussed our plans for regular support meetings. Whatever it takes to keep our focus on the kids.

bkisbutchenuff · 08-11-2012, 03:06 AM

And so it begins...sleepless nights...mind boggling tasks...making it happen with nothing....

I must say....not being dramatic - but, 25 yrs. and I have never started not knowing what I will be doing when I go in Monday....

Also - shouldn't have to go in on a Sat. - yet - but due to construction and lack of leadership...yep - I will be there for 3 or 4 hrs at least today....

I did finally get some help moving stuff yesterday until we were kicked out...

As of yesterday afternoon when we were booted out of the building, no Internet or intercom system...not sure how that will fly Monday...

At our forced pep rally...not so bad - though I couldn't get past seeing $ signs and waste of money after positions being cut, programs slashed, budgets taken, furlough days, no raise in 4 yrs. - the Superintendent speaks at the end....100 people may have clapped out of 6000. Hello!!!! Then he actually made a remark about paying us - moans and groans from the audience....he actually turns from the mic and laughs....He's looking for a buyout!

3 new administrators....not a pretty sight!

besides that...I promise to not bitch and moan .... In my room - I will make unbelievable music with my kids! That - you can count on!

spritzerJ · 08-11-2012, 06:23 AM

BK I am so glad you got to work some in your room. Saturday work is nuts. Unless you like doing it then I suppose it isn't.

I've been amazed by the music teachers I've worked with in the past. What they come up with and how they get the kids to make music together is amazing. I can only imagine what your dedication has created over 25 years. I know you are talking about creating something out of nothing in the wider context. And once the music starts you'll know you are coaching, prodding, guiding lots of someones to make some music!

All the budget cuts, pay cuts, day cuts, position cuts gets so frustrating and disheartening. Especially when sitting in a district rah, rah. I think if you want to work us like dogs then let us in our rooms to work!

Peace BK!

bkisbutchenuff · 08-13-2012, 02:38 AM

spritzerJ · 08-09-2012, 08:04 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bkisbutchenuff

Well...I'm just tired. What a long day...I need to do some paperwork...but don't think I can tonight. Five minutes before open House, which we had to have in the Gym (because of construction), we were told - by the way - you will have no access to your rooms tomorrow (because of construction)...Really???? So now I have to work Sat. GGRRR! Tomorrow, we are getting bussed to a forced pep rally...followed by a whole afternoon of mandated meetings....

Wish I could say I feel better from venting...but I don't really...

District Rah-Rah events are one of my least favorites of all time! I love how you said forced pep. Luckily with testing, new common core and racing there is less pep more fire and brimstone. Oh wait that isn't any better.

Wish I was closer to you to help out with room set up. Saturday work sucks!

08-09-2012, 06:52 PM	#2
bkisbutchenuff PPoA - Southern Gentle Butch How Do You Identify?: BOI/Butch/Daddy Preferred Pronoun?: she, her, he, him, handsome, Daddy Relationship Status: Single. 😉 Join Date: May 2011 Location: GA Posts: 2,398 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 14,071 Thanked 10,845 Times in 2,247 Posts Rep Power: 21474853	Well...I'm just tired. What a long day...I need to do some paperwork...but don't think I can tonight. Five minutes before open House, which we had to have in the Gym (because of construction), we were told - by the way - you will have no access to your rooms tomorrow (because of construction)...Really???? So now I have to work Sat. GGRRR! Tomorrow, we are getting bussed to a forced pep rally...followed by a whole afternoon of mandated meetings.... Wish I could say I feel better from venting...but I don't really... __________________ BK "We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand." Randy Pausch.

08-11-2012, 03:06 AM	#7
bkisbutchenuff PPoA - Southern Gentle Butch How Do You Identify?: BOI/Butch/Daddy Preferred Pronoun?: she, her, he, him, handsome, Daddy Relationship Status: Single. 😉 Join Date: May 2011 Location: GA Posts: 2,398 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 14,071 Thanked 10,845 Times in 2,247 Posts Rep Power: 21474853	And so it begins...sleepless nights...mind boggling tasks...making it happen with nothing.... I must say....not being dramatic - but, 25 yrs. and I have never started not knowing what I will be doing when I go in Monday.... Also - shouldn't have to go in on a Sat. - yet - but due to construction and lack of leadership...yep - I will be there for 3 or 4 hrs at least today.... I did finally get some help moving stuff yesterday until we were kicked out... As of yesterday afternoon when we were booted out of the building, no Internet or intercom system...not sure how that will fly Monday... At our forced pep rally...not so bad - though I couldn't get past seeing $ signs and waste of money after positions being cut, programs slashed, budgets taken, furlough days, no raise in 4 yrs. - the Superintendent speaks at the end....100 people may have clapped out of 6000. Hello!!!! Then he actually made a remark about paying us - moans and groans from the audience....he actually turns from the mic and laughs....He's looking for a buyout! 3 new administrators....not a pretty sight! besides that...I promise to not bitch and moan .... In my room - I will make unbelievable music with my kids! That - you can count on! __________________ BK "We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand." Randy Pausch.

08-13-2012, 02:38 AM	#9
bkisbutchenuff PPoA - Southern Gentle Butch How Do You Identify?: BOI/Butch/Daddy Preferred Pronoun?: she, her, he, him, handsome, Daddy Relationship Status: Single. 😉 Join Date: May 2011 Location: GA Posts: 2,398 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 14,071 Thanked 10,845 Times in 2,247 Posts Rep Power: 21474853	__________________ BK "We cannot change the cards we are dealt, just how we play the hand." Randy Pausch.

08-09-2012, 07:19 PM	#3
Martina Senior Member How Do You Identify?: * Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: * Posts: 4,999 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 13,409 Thanked 18,285 Times in 4,167 Posts Rep Power: 21474854	By Tuesday, I will have had seven full days of meetings at six different locations. Blah. Tired and losing steam, and I haven't done a lick of work to actually prepare to do my job. We listened to an executive from a major -- MAJOR -- tech company talk to us today. She had NOTHING new to say except that tech needs prepared grads. No shit. The free pastries don't even make me feel better anymore. I never thought I'd turn my nose up at an apricot danish. One funny funny awesome thing was that they got an eighth grader who looked more like a 10 year old get up and give us a pep talk. The kid was ON FIRE. I mean amazing. Sweet, funny, real, and just so good at public speaking. We all wanted to adopt him. I saw my classroom. Pretty much a pit. Starting from scratch again. Whine. Oh and I don't care how nice they are in real life and how much better they are than the asshole at the other school, all administrators suck. They are so cavalier about the things that matter to you. Re a much needed printer so that we won't have to disturb another class to pick up our printing, she says, "OH, I think D was going to order that. He said he was. But I think he forgot." No phone service -- again we have to interrupt another class. No computers yet. No passwords for the web application to create IEPs. No keys ordered. Re the fact that there are NO translators for Special Education (for IEP's), she is just like, oh well. There are only two for the entire -- large -- district. Yes, we put kids first. Sigh. I was so enthusiastic until the endless days of meetings beat me down and until I saw what it looks like on the ground. What gets me about this administrator is that she used to be a Sped teacher. What happens to them when they get that degree and move into Administration? Body snatched or something. And our union is sooo in love with administration. I have never been anywhere like that. Today was my first day with veteran teachers, and . . . oh well, it's just like anyplace else. You have to fight to be able to do your job. Any other profession, your bosses understand it's their job to give you the tools and the information you need to perform. I remember once asking a principal for a teacher's edition of a textbook. His response: "Good luck with that."

08-09-2012, 07:53 PM	#4
ruthie14 Member How Do You Identify?: femme Preferred Pronoun?: she Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: NJ Posts: 844 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 1,904 Thanked 1,245 Times in 461 Posts Rep Power: 5946335	My gift has been early childhood education. I love it dearly. However, at 50 years old, I wish I had gone to college for the older grades. You all are very blessed!! Have a wonderful school year!! Ruthie

08-11-2012, 06:23 AM	#8
spritzerJ Timed Out - Permanent How Do You Identify?: Queer (gender), female (biological marker) Preferred Pronoun?: she will work as a default. Relationship Status: engaged to jac until 8/10/14 Join Date: Nov 2010 Location: Maine Posts: 3,154 My Photo Gallery Thanks: 30,307 Thanked 15,802 Times in 2,905 Posts Rep Power: 0	BK I am so glad you got to work some in your room. Saturday work is nuts. Unless you like doing it then I suppose it isn't. I've been amazed by the music teachers I've worked with in the past. What they come up with and how they get the kids to make music together is amazing. I can only imagine what your dedication has created over 25 years. I know you are talking about creating something out of nothing in the wider context. And once the music starts you'll know you are coaching, prodding, guiding lots of someones to make some music! All the budget cuts, pay cuts, day cuts, position cuts gets so frustrating and disheartening. Especially when sitting in a district rah, rah. I think if you want to work us like dogs then let us in our rooms to work! Peace BK!