I have become, comfortably...

Colleagues,

MVP: We often confuse self-preservation for apathy.
 
The teacher is resisting the LETTERS program because they are completely overwhelmed. This second-year teacher is coming off of a horrible first year. The teacher struggled with classroom management, and the number of curriculum standards were overwhelming. The teacher took a course on classroom management in the summer and developed a year-long plan for covering the curriculum.
 
They began the year optimistically, but they have two students who are very disruptive, and the LETTERS requirements are making it hard for the teacher to keep up with lesson planning. They feel the year spiraling out of control and are afraid that it is going to go like the last one. They think, “maybe I’m not cut out for this” and feel their dream of being a great teacher slipping away.
 
The teacher withdraws and becomes apathetic to everything, especially LETTERS. It all hurts too much and becoming numb is easier.
 
We often confuse self-preservation for apathy.
 
Reflect:

• Have you invented a story about why someone acted a certain way, only to find that story was wrong?
• Have you made assumptions based on prior traumatic experiences?
• Have you ever been in over your head?
• Have you ever withdrawn to protect yourself?

 
Have a great weekend!

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The scenario:
The state has decided that all elementary school teachers must learn a science-based reading technique and structure their lessons and teach in a specific format defined by the program. Let’s be creative and call the program LETTERS. 
 
The training requires teachers to spend 2-3 hours a week outside of the school day. As compensation the state is providing a monthly stipend of $200.
 
While some teachers are embracing the program, many are not. 

Cheers!

Frederick