Reputations

This week I learned a lot about teacher reputations. My CT shares nearly everything with me. Probably even things I shouldn't know. But in reality, it sounds like every school is like this. It depends on who administration is and how well they work with their teachers to creating respectable work environments. There seems to be a lot of rumor mills at the high school, but few teachers approach administration about their concerns unless it's a legal matter. It seems a lot of the comments begin with the students complaining to other teachers and teachers spreading what the students are saying. It makes me wonder about reputations in the schools and how colleagues and the students perceive teachers. There comes a point where one should be able to distinguish hearsay and not judge people by what they've heard. It goes the same way for teachers towards students. I understand it can be difficult to not have preconceived judgments about students before they even walk through our door, but hearing all the gossip this week at the high school makes me think twice about speaking my mind on things especially to other teachers. I want to approach my students and colleagues with an open mind, because I may be the one who can see someone in a new light.

My CT treats the art room as a safe place. That is something I want to emulate. It can be nice for students to know they can vent to another teacher about issues, and even other teachers, knowing that what they say won't leave the art room. Kids have bad days. Releasing all their anger, frustration, and annoyances can help them feel better. Just as long as what they say doesn't leave the room (unless it's a serious legal issue, of course). I don't want to be the one that has the reputation of being the, *gasp*, Gossip Queen. :)