I've been throwing a tantrum for the last two hours or so. It's subtle, because I'm at school and I've got to keep it professional. But that doesn't mean I can't slam the paper tray on the printer or type really hard or stomp up the stairs. (I may be exaggerating slightly. Maybe.)
Why so angry, Sarah? Well, when the principal disagrees with a decision that I have recommended (a decision that the parent is in full agreement with me about), it gets me a little ticked. Furthermore, when the principal is motivated by test scores and "looking good" and not thinking about the child's best interest down the road? That's just not right. Oh, and for the principal to argue her point with me in the meeting when the parent is present? That's just unprofessional. And checking the box in the legal paperwork on the IEP that says "disagree" and promising to write up a professional report to go along with her disagreement? Childish!
I take some comfort in the fact that I had the full support of the special education diagnostician (my principal's superior!) during the meeting. When I talked to him afterwards, he said he was "going to have a little chat with the principal" later. It also makes me relieved that my direct boss (my deaf education administrator) was in full support of my recommendation.
So despite having Important People on my side, and despite knowing in my heart that I'm doing what's best for my student, the whole situation still ticks me off. I took a stand for what I knew was right, and now I'm going to be in the doghouse for it.
Here's to hoping my day only gets better from here on out.
10 comments:
Well, sounds like you did the right thing and the principal will have to live with a crap decision later. Wow. Had no idea so much political stuff happened amongst teachers.
alicia @ a beautiful mess
Sorry to hear about your frustration! My current supervisor has a knack for doing some unprofessional things as well (like not including me, actually specifically telling me not to attend, a meeting involving the parents of a student I work with a lot and having another special education teacher attend who doesn't work with the child at all!). I get upset too, but I guess it's best to continue doing the right thing and being good at what you do and trying not to let other people interfere with that!
I am sorry you are having an awful day! I think you did the right thing, and in the end your principal might end up looking like the "bad guy" especially if his/her superiors agree with you! Your students are lucky to have you! I hope your day gets better!
It is more than frustrating when we pour our hearts and souls in doing what is best for our students only to be abandoned by superiors (and I use the term loosely.) Hang in there. Hope you can feel my support for doing the right thing. Nancy
I can understand you 100% My sister and many other teacher friends have to deal with the same thing. AAhh, now I'm ticked off! It is so sad that there are so many principals out there, (not all) but some out there that don't care about the welfare of the students, but only care to look good themselves, how selfish! Kudos for you dear for standing strong. Don't ever back down if the best interest is for the students.
Sounds familiar!
~jo
It sucks to do what you know is best for kids and get reprimanded for it. I'm glad you have the support of at least some of your superiors!
It is happening in classrooms all over the nation. Sorry Princess.
Welcome to education. There will always be an administrator who makes decisions based on numbers, finances, or staffing. Pick your battles. I don't know of single intervention specialist who won't bend the rules for a kid if they have to. You are in good company.
I hope it did get better.
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