What a tough day today! Teaching is a hard enough job, but there are other factors that make it worse.
I spent today proctoring our state assessment test, a tedious task. Watching freshmen squirm, sniff, wipe noses, sharpen pencils, and bubble does not make for an exciting three hours. We are not allowed to read, grade, or do anything other than walk around and stare at the kids. Before the day was over, I'd already walked two miles.
And then...
It felt like my day erupted. One frustration after another piled up, and I was ready to hurt someone. Between parents excusing their children from attending class due to weather, to students "not knowing" if an assignment was due, to absenteeism, and finally, watching politics take their toll, I was ready to quit.
And then...
A student I had last year stopped by for a surprise visit today. It was wonderful to see him and talk with him. While his visit didn't necessarily appease my frustration, he reminded me why I teach. I absolutely love visits from former students, and seeing one who dropped out was especially delightful. As awful as I perceived my day to be, knowing I've impacted an individual reminds me that I have to back each day; I have work to do.
I am a lucky person; I have mostly great students, current and former. I have been blessed throughout my twenty years, and I'm glad I go back tomorrow.
