Week one down... without any bloodshed :)

Week one at the jr. high went well. They are little toots sometimes, but mostly full of funny comments that keep me giggling!One of the boys asked me if I was "packing" on Friday. Sounds suggestive, but I think he was just wondering if I had a gun.

The worst part is how easily discouraged they are. Very few of them think they're smart, and it is hard to keep them motivated. When we filled in a personal crest (they had to color it and answer questions about themselves) one of the questions was "What is one thing you're good at?" Many of them asked me for help because they couldn't think of anything. Seriously? You can't think of one thing that you do well? It's sad, but I think most of it stems from a lack of self-confidence. And I remember that feeling very well.

Next week I'm starting college classes for my fast-tracked doctorate plan. I'm taking 9 hours of master's level college classes!!!!! It will probably kick me in the tail, but I'm looking forward to it.

Day one

The first day of 8th grade all over again! I was nervous, but felt more prepared than I did last year. After the first few minutes of my first class, I calmed down a little. But 8 hours on your feet it tough! We didn't get any planning periods yesterday.

I had some funny stuff happen... like kids showing me drawings of Odie and Sonic the hedgehog. I think I laughed inwardly all day (when I wasn't screaming inwardly) because they are all so wonderfully awkward. I love it.

I work in a rural part of the community so there are lots of good 'ole boys and girls. Yesterday, when we were talking about places we'd one day like to visit, one of the kids in the back raised his hand and, me, expecting him to ask how to spell a certain country, asked him what he needed. He said..."Mrs. Berry, how do you spell bayou?" I giggled, but obliged and wrote his word on the board. Oh boy. We've got some culture to inject into these kids... but at least they're honest. :)

Ready or not...

Ahhh! School starts in 5 days! It's been a mix of emotions while getting ready for this new middle school adventure. I'm making the jump from 4th grade to 8th grade English, but I think it was a much needed change. People keep telling me horror stories about middle school kids (P.S. why do people feel the need to tell horrific stories when someone is starting a new adventure in their life?) but I hope I can be a mature, flexible, quick on my feet enough person to cope. I remember last year that I was extremely stressed out... as in I was so in the dark about planning that I would get to school at 6:30 and not leave until 7:00 PM!!! I think this year will be better... at least I know what to expect out of my curriculum, my principal and, and my self.

Added into the mix is me starting a doctoral program at SFA. That means three classes on Monday and Tuesday. I guess I will have to be prepared, and prepared early to deal with middle school kids and college level material. Whew!

Tonight we have meet the parents, and I think it will be fun. I am anxious to see the kids that I will have in my class. In the midst of all the scary stories, I have to keep reminding myself... "They're just kids, Callie, just kids. "