Introduction

I've been teaching high school English for almost nine years now. I have taught all levels (9,10 and 11) and have even been the drama teacher because I thought it would be fun. Fun is not a word to describe being a drama teacher. Words like total insanity, fundraiser, psychologist, janitor, foreman and mechanic---a mom needed a jump start and a student hit my car after a production when he was leaving the parking lot -- are more suitable words.

A friend of mine from college likes to take me to parties because of all the stories I can tell. I'm sort of like the wind up English teacher- watch her talk. When I mention that I am a high school teacher- people sort of take a few steps back and gasp- how can you do that level? People so misunderstand teenagers and are afraid of them. When I mention that I teach Sophomores or grade 10 --most people ask me if I have a good therapist or if I am crazy. Everyone on this planet seems to have a severe dislike or even aversion to teaching 10th graders. This is my second time around teaching sophomores and am really, really enjoying it. I know in my department that teaching 10th grade is not high on most peoples' request for classes. I really enjoy it.

My personal educational philosophy that developed after teaching for a time involves a few things: treat others the way you would want to be treated, create an atmosphere of respect, be real, be honest, wear jeans and always be willing to laugh at yourself. MY classroom is noisy- but not noisy in an uncontrollable way. If my room sounded and looked like a library I'd be bored. I love the interaction with the students and some of the stories I get from working with them are priceless, you cant make this stuff up.

So that's why this blog is here. I want to share the highs and lows of working with 10th graders. I want others to see that teaching these wise fools can be a blessing in disguise. I want to give other teachers hope that teaching tenth graders is not a curse or a karmic payback. I also know that being on a supportive faculty is essential and I grateful for having the most wonderful colleagues to work with.

What about privacy? I will not be using student names and I will not be disclosing any personal information about students or where i work. I just want to share the essence of what I am surrounded with and hope that you'll smile a bit before going on about your day.

Oh, and a note about grammar and spelling and style- it may be off a bit but hey I'm human too.

Catch you on the flip side!