Emilee Perkins

I have had to deal with a few angry students here recently and I have also found that sometimes they just need to talk it out and have someone listen.

Cindy Castor

I also had a situation a few terms ago with students who were frustrated by my giving the weekly quizzes by 8:15 AM for a class that started at 8:00 AM. The first day of class I emphasized the fact that I am approachable and if any student needed to talk to me about any circumstances that may hinder their success in the class to make an appointment. Skipping many of the in between details, I asked this one student who seemed to initiate the negative discussions for the first couple of class sessions if we could talk privately prior to the start of class. We stepped out in the hall and I shared that I had prayed over the situation looking for a resolution. The student then shared with me that one of his children came home from school complaining about his teacher and bad mouthing her. He explained to his son that his behavior was inappropriate and at that moment he realized the behavior he was displaying towards me was worse than his sons and that he was not setting a good example. He apologized to me and thanked me for talking to him and began coming to class on time. Our relationship from that point on has been a good one.

Patricia Scales

Hi Kim,
Sometimes all it takes is a simple conversation with students to get them back on track. It is good you cared enough to talk to this gentleman.
Patricia

Kim Smotek

I had to do just that with one of my students. The entire class he sat there and did homework for another class. Prior to this he had been an excellent student, participating, in discussions, asking questions and doing well on tests. I stopped him after class and asked what was going on since I noticed that he did not speak much in class. This was very helpful since he then was able to communicate to me his frustrations with the class. After discussing the matter, we came to an understanding and things were much better after that.