Have I told you lately how very much I hate the Middle School? I hated it when I went there? And how very much I hated it when the Toad went there? So I have 3x times the hate for the place right now.
Honestly, I'm not overly impressed with the teachers. At least not the Howler's teachers. The coolest one (and the only one I think I'd actually want to know) is her math teacher. He puts off a hippie vibe...just kinda laid back, even while taking the whole teaching math thing seriously. The Howler likes him a lot. He doesn't wear shoes when he's teaching. Or so the Howler sez. He also doesn't mind her going shoeless in his room either. He impresses her with his acknowledgement of her hatred of shoes. Good for him.
The other teachers? Yeah, I don't like 'em so much. Other than her reading teacher, I don't think these people fully understand that they are teaching 11-12-13 year olds, with all their individual insanities added to the collective age related insanities.
I won't start about the music/chorus/band teachers. That's a whole rant that I avoid, because while it's valid, it also makes me sound too much like my mother.
But this isn't about the teachers themselves. This is about the notice that the students will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo, since they're studying Mexico right now. Cinco de Mayo is on a Monday this year. The Howler et al will be celebrating it on the Friday before.
That's right: They're celebrating Dos de Mayo (although I've been saying "deux" because if said properly, it sounds very much like a "duh". She giggles. Worth it!) The Howler refused to let me near the paper I was to sign in agreement to present some form of Mexican foodstuffs or wrapped candy for someone else to stuff into a piñata or three until I promised not to write a note about the teachers totally missing the point of Cinco de Mayo.
Don't worry. I promised. I was a good Mom.
And the Howler was a good Howler, and notified her Social Studies teacher of what I had said.
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Showing posts with label school. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Back To School is Annoying
Especially if, like me, you have a brand spanking new Middle Schooler.
Last week, we went to the middle school for 6th grade orientation. I was looking forward to getting the Howler's schedule and having an idea of what to expect. Since it's been a long time since the Toad went there, and I've been over elementary school since well before the beginning of 5th grade, I want to have my 6th grade/Middle School bearings. I don't need any crap from the school district, and I plan to do exactly as I've been doing all through elementary school: pay attention, act as needed, blah blah blah.
I have already, before school even started, been annoyed beyond belief. My annoyance level may be a bit over the top, but not by much.
It's called "orientation" for a reason! The people talking at me about what to expect, what is expected, how things work, blah blah, should tell me who they are. First and last names would be good.
The Howler and I were not late. We were exactly on time. We were already seated when what appeared to be a random district employee began talking into a microphone. Several minutes into her talk, she told us she was the principal. I caught her first name. Now, maybe I'm expecting too much, but if you've got yourself a microphone, I expect to be able to hear your full name, especially if I'm attending a thing called "Orientation". And when you introduce the other people who will have contact and a direct influence on my child during this school year, I expect to hear their names clearly too. Six people were introduced...I caught 2 first names, the resource officer's full name, and the athletic director's full name.
That's right: I have the first names of the principal; the vice principal; have no clue as to the 6th grade guidance counsellor's name at all; the full name of the police officer serving as the middle school's resource officer; the food service guy luckily gave me his name when he was going over his section of the program because the principal certainly didn't; and the full name of the athletic director, which doesn't count because I know him and recognized him anyway.
I just think that when you announce something as an "orientation" you can be sure that many of the people in attendance are actually there because they aren't familiar with you. And if you have a microphone, you use to be sure you're heard...and if you're part of a list of people who will be talking during the whatever the program is, even if you've been fully-assed (as opposed to half-assed) introduced, you introduce yourself again. The lame-ass wave you gave when being half-ass introduced is not going to win you my confidence. It makes me think that, much like all guidance counsellors I've met before you, you're a waste of space and tax payers dollars. Oh, what I wouldn't give for a guidance counsellor worth his or her paycheck!
I'm annoyed and the school year hasn't even started yet!
Last week, we went to the middle school for 6th grade orientation. I was looking forward to getting the Howler's schedule and having an idea of what to expect. Since it's been a long time since the Toad went there, and I've been over elementary school since well before the beginning of 5th grade, I want to have my 6th grade/Middle School bearings. I don't need any crap from the school district, and I plan to do exactly as I've been doing all through elementary school: pay attention, act as needed, blah blah blah.
I have already, before school even started, been annoyed beyond belief. My annoyance level may be a bit over the top, but not by much.
It's called "orientation" for a reason! The people talking at me about what to expect, what is expected, how things work, blah blah, should tell me who they are. First and last names would be good.
The Howler and I were not late. We were exactly on time. We were already seated when what appeared to be a random district employee began talking into a microphone. Several minutes into her talk, she told us she was the principal. I caught her first name. Now, maybe I'm expecting too much, but if you've got yourself a microphone, I expect to be able to hear your full name, especially if I'm attending a thing called "Orientation". And when you introduce the other people who will have contact and a direct influence on my child during this school year, I expect to hear their names clearly too. Six people were introduced...I caught 2 first names, the resource officer's full name, and the athletic director's full name.
That's right: I have the first names of the principal; the vice principal; have no clue as to the 6th grade guidance counsellor's name at all; the full name of the police officer serving as the middle school's resource officer; the food service guy luckily gave me his name when he was going over his section of the program because the principal certainly didn't; and the full name of the athletic director, which doesn't count because I know him and recognized him anyway.
I just think that when you announce something as an "orientation" you can be sure that many of the people in attendance are actually there because they aren't familiar with you. And if you have a microphone, you use to be sure you're heard...and if you're part of a list of people who will be talking during the whatever the program is, even if you've been fully-assed (as opposed to half-assed) introduced, you introduce yourself again. The lame-ass wave you gave when being half-ass introduced is not going to win you my confidence. It makes me think that, much like all guidance counsellors I've met before you, you're a waste of space and tax payers dollars. Oh, what I wouldn't give for a guidance counsellor worth his or her paycheck!
I'm annoyed and the school year hasn't even started yet!
Monday, December 17, 2012
Christmas Past p.1
This year, the Howler announced that, "Duh, you and Mom are Santa." So, I'm spending this holiday season, remembering the Howler That Was.
With that said, I bring you an unadulterated rerun, from 2007:
With that said, I bring you an unadulterated rerun, from 2007:
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Amazing
I have been in a state of high-level self-righteous piss off. I don't like it. And it's scary to think that I actually used to LIVE this way. All the time.
Anyway, tonight, I received an apology for how I was treated. Was it sincere? I believe so. And I feel better already. It's amazing, because an hour ago I was just about frothing at the mouth hurtangryinsane and swearing like a ... well, you fill in the blank.
That was part of the problem--treating people shitty is NOT how I know the people on the board to be. I would not have given my time and efforts to the PTA if they were. When there were others running things, I made myself scarce, because I knew this is what it would be like, and self-preservation (and realizing that high-level self righteous piss off is not a good place to be) making it easy to just shrug and walk away.
I still don't like how the trip is being handled. I think we have 3 queen bee wanna-bees deciding what they (and their snotty daughters) want, and doing that.
Now that I am calmer, I see that their letter actually states that they want every parent to help with fundraising for the trip. They want my money, and my silent support. They don't want my (or anyone else's) opinion and they sure as shit don't want my participation beyond what scraps they deign to toss our way.
I know 2 of the 3 women who are now making all the decisions for this trip. They were like this in high school, and they're like this now. They have no concept that they are snotty, nasty, self-serving *ahem* (yes, there IS a word I won't use here. Go figure. Betcha you know which one!) I'll be conserving my energy for the fight it will be for me to be allowed to be a chaperone, because I'm sure they'll "lose" and then "forget" that I signed up.
I already know that there are several kids who don't want to go to an amusement park, mostly because they don't ride the rides. Apparently, though, their opinions won't be needed, because, really? If they're not friends with these 3 women's spawn, they obviously aren't worth worrying about. I hope there's a revolt and the other parents totally take over the trip and these women find themselves with no power, no PTA funding, and no one but themselves to blame. That's a meeting I'll go to.
I wish the PTA president and his board Good Luck--I already know they're gonna need it.
Anyway, tonight, I received an apology for how I was treated. Was it sincere? I believe so. And I feel better already. It's amazing, because an hour ago I was just about frothing at the mouth hurtangryinsane and swearing like a ... well, you fill in the blank.
That was part of the problem--treating people shitty is NOT how I know the people on the board to be. I would not have given my time and efforts to the PTA if they were. When there were others running things, I made myself scarce, because I knew this is what it would be like, and self-preservation (and realizing that high-level self righteous piss off is not a good place to be) making it easy to just shrug and walk away.
I still don't like how the trip is being handled. I think we have 3 queen bee wanna-bees deciding what they (and their snotty daughters) want, and doing that.
Now that I am calmer, I see that their letter actually states that they want every parent to help with fundraising for the trip. They want my money, and my silent support. They don't want my (or anyone else's) opinion and they sure as shit don't want my participation beyond what scraps they deign to toss our way.
I know 2 of the 3 women who are now making all the decisions for this trip. They were like this in high school, and they're like this now. They have no concept that they are snotty, nasty, self-serving *ahem* (yes, there IS a word I won't use here. Go figure. Betcha you know which one!) I'll be conserving my energy for the fight it will be for me to be allowed to be a chaperone, because I'm sure they'll "lose" and then "forget" that I signed up.
I already know that there are several kids who don't want to go to an amusement park, mostly because they don't ride the rides. Apparently, though, their opinions won't be needed, because, really? If they're not friends with these 3 women's spawn, they obviously aren't worth worrying about. I hope there's a revolt and the other parents totally take over the trip and these women find themselves with no power, no PTA funding, and no one but themselves to blame. That's a meeting I'll go to.
I wish the PTA president and his board Good Luck--I already know they're gonna need it.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Thanks for Nothing
This is a rant. I will be swearing (yes, the F-bomb.) So you've been warned.
The Howler is in 5th grade. This is our last year in the elementary school. Over the course of the past 5-point-something years, I have been Homeroom Mom, PTA Secretary, Fundraising Chairperson, and last year, I re did the by laws. One year, we even had a special spring event that I chaired. Totally made up, no previous year's guidance, blah blah blah. I have volunteered to take pictures for the yearbook, be on committees, and help at events and fundraising that didn't even effect my daughter, namely, sold hoagies and crap for 5th graders when she was not a 5th grader and help corral incoming kindergarteners when she wasn't one.
All of that is apparently nothing. And I received the thanks for all that nothing yesterday.
This year, I volunteered to be the chairperson for the 5th grade trip & recognition--I was told that the two usually go together and are done by the same person/people. I was also told to wait until the December meeting to begin any planning for fundraising, etc.
I missed the November meeting because we were supposed to go to Church Convention, and instead, I was sick. Not only did we miss going, but I also missed 3 days of work the following week because I was THAT sick.
The first notice of the 5th grade trip from the chairperson came home yesterday. It wasn't from me. It has a note at the bottom reminding parents that someone needs to organize and plan the recognition thing, too.
Now, I'm not mad that someone else is doing it (less stress for me) but I am fairly well pissed off (and yes, hurt) that no one could contact me BEFORE this fucking paper came home to inform me that someone else wanted to do it. I'm mad that I spent all that time and energy and effort to help re organize the fucking PTA when it had fallen apart. I worked at being nice to people to be sure that no one got treated this way. I spent time at fucking events that had nothing to do with me or mine, and sold shit so other kids could have a nice experience. I fucking dealt with OPK, and OP.
And I can't even get a fucking courtesy call to inform me that I've been replaced? I've been telling myself that it has been worth it, because when we did have problems, they were addressed quickly and while not always totally to my satisfaction, they were handled, and I wasn't (and the Howler wasn't) treated as some sort of fucking nuisance because I complained.
It's still a shitty thing for them to do.
And I'm wondering if I'm still the Homeroom parent for the Howler's class. God knows they wouldn't bother to tell me if I wasn't. The assholes.
The Howler is in 5th grade. This is our last year in the elementary school. Over the course of the past 5-point-something years, I have been Homeroom Mom, PTA Secretary, Fundraising Chairperson, and last year, I re did the by laws. One year, we even had a special spring event that I chaired. Totally made up, no previous year's guidance, blah blah blah. I have volunteered to take pictures for the yearbook, be on committees, and help at events and fundraising that didn't even effect my daughter, namely, sold hoagies and crap for 5th graders when she was not a 5th grader and help corral incoming kindergarteners when she wasn't one.
All of that is apparently nothing. And I received the thanks for all that nothing yesterday.
This year, I volunteered to be the chairperson for the 5th grade trip & recognition--I was told that the two usually go together and are done by the same person/people. I was also told to wait until the December meeting to begin any planning for fundraising, etc.
I missed the November meeting because we were supposed to go to Church Convention, and instead, I was sick. Not only did we miss going, but I also missed 3 days of work the following week because I was THAT sick.
The first notice of the 5th grade trip from the chairperson came home yesterday. It wasn't from me. It has a note at the bottom reminding parents that someone needs to organize and plan the recognition thing, too.
Now, I'm not mad that someone else is doing it (less stress for me) but I am fairly well pissed off (and yes, hurt) that no one could contact me BEFORE this fucking paper came home to inform me that someone else wanted to do it. I'm mad that I spent all that time and energy and effort to help re organize the fucking PTA when it had fallen apart. I worked at being nice to people to be sure that no one got treated this way. I spent time at fucking events that had nothing to do with me or mine, and sold shit so other kids could have a nice experience. I fucking dealt with OPK, and OP.
And I can't even get a fucking courtesy call to inform me that I've been replaced? I've been telling myself that it has been worth it, because when we did have problems, they were addressed quickly and while not always totally to my satisfaction, they were handled, and I wasn't (and the Howler wasn't) treated as some sort of fucking nuisance because I complained.
It's still a shitty thing for them to do.
And I'm wondering if I'm still the Homeroom parent for the Howler's class. God knows they wouldn't bother to tell me if I wasn't. The assholes.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Mine! Mine!
The Howler, over the past year or so, has been slowly stealing my clothes.
On one hand, it's actually a compliment, because she's so stinking picky about fabrics and fit. She's always saying, "It's uncomfortable." She'll reject things that normal people wear, and limit herself to mostly T-shirts and sweatpants. I've managed to force her into wearing jeans, mostly by telling her that she cannot go through life in sweatpants and shorts.
On the other hand, those clothes are MINE, and I LIKE them, and I WANT them back! I have given her some T-shirts to sleep in, a sweater or two for church, but in general, if the clothes have spent any quality time in my closet, or on me, I consider them MINE and don't expect to see them tromping home from the bus stop after school. But if the picky Howler is actually stealing them, I'm at least not dressing like my mother.
Two nights ago, she came to me, holding a brand new pair of jeans. MY jeans. MINE. She said, "It's spirit day tomorrow at school, and I am wearing these jeans." (bolding by the Howler. Yes, she talks in bold. shooosh, you.)
I said, "Those are mine."
She replied, "Maybe not."
"They don't fit you."
"Oh, yes, but they do."
"Prove it."
And she did.
GRRRRRRRR.
On one hand, it's actually a compliment, because she's so stinking picky about fabrics and fit. She's always saying, "It's uncomfortable." She'll reject things that normal people wear, and limit herself to mostly T-shirts and sweatpants. I've managed to force her into wearing jeans, mostly by telling her that she cannot go through life in sweatpants and shorts.
On the other hand, those clothes are MINE, and I LIKE them, and I WANT them back! I have given her some T-shirts to sleep in, a sweater or two for church, but in general, if the clothes have spent any quality time in my closet, or on me, I consider them MINE and don't expect to see them tromping home from the bus stop after school. But if the picky Howler is actually stealing them, I'm at least not dressing like my mother.
Two nights ago, she came to me, holding a brand new pair of jeans. MY jeans. MINE. She said, "It's spirit day tomorrow at school, and I am wearing these jeans." (bolding by the Howler. Yes, she talks in bold. shooosh, you.)
I said, "Those are mine."
She replied, "Maybe not."
"They don't fit you."
"Oh, yes, but they do."
"Prove it."
And she did.
GRRRRRRRR.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Bee Afraid
The Howler arrived home today, brimming with news:
She made the first cut in the Spelling Bee! She is one of 5 children from her class who will go on to the next step: the "all school" Spelling Bee. That's right, folks: the Howler, one of the worst spellers in the history of spelling (3rd only behind my brother and her brother, I think) is one of the top 15 spellers in the 4th grade. Bee afraid.
She brought home this huge list of words: and, considering how horribly she usually shrieks at any kind of work in this magnitude, she is undaunted. Bee even more afraid, because, dude, she's GOT THIS.
Also, I am proud, because last year, she made me proud too: she wanted no part of the extra work last year and deliberately misspelled the first word they gave her, because there was no way she was getting involved in THAT. (leave it to my girl to figure the out!)
She made the first cut in the Spelling Bee! She is one of 5 children from her class who will go on to the next step: the "all school" Spelling Bee. That's right, folks: the Howler, one of the worst spellers in the history of spelling (3rd only behind my brother and her brother, I think) is one of the top 15 spellers in the 4th grade. Bee afraid.
She brought home this huge list of words: and, considering how horribly she usually shrieks at any kind of work in this magnitude, she is undaunted. Bee even more afraid, because, dude, she's GOT THIS.
Also, I am proud, because last year, she made me proud too: she wanted no part of the extra work last year and deliberately misspelled the first word they gave her, because there was no way she was getting involved in THAT. (leave it to my girl to figure the out!)
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Murderizing the Langridge Continues
Even into the 4th grade, the Howler manages to murderize the langridge:
Currently, in math, they're working on "eclapsed" time.
I am so curious to find out what, exactly, this entails, I'm off to do 4th grade math.
Currently, in math, they're working on "eclapsed" time.
I am so curious to find out what, exactly, this entails, I'm off to do 4th grade math.
Thursday, September 15, 2011
I'd Like To Buy A...
Hard consonant.
I'm trying to not be a total bitch. I really really really am. But really? REALLY.
The woman from 3 years ago who went batshit crazy on the PTA, who apparently does have a speech impediment...is baaaa-aaaack.
So, she was voted in. And honestly? It's like I have ADHD. I'm over the PTA. I rather like being a slacker and am happy that I'm back in the cheap seats.
But I spent an hour of my life listening to this woman mis use and abuse the English language. We had a "mee-in" tonight
And she uses the wrong word--she pronounces those ones just fine, thankyouverymuch. They're just WRONG. As in, I'm having a coherent thought, and OMG! If you mean "overlook" as in "You need to overlook the fact that I cannot pronounce T's and G's" then please, for my sanity, do not say, "They will oversee the fact that I cannot speak in complete thoughts."
I'm overseeing it, baby. Believe me, I'm overseeing it.
I'm trying to not be a total bitch. I really really really am. But really? REALLY.
The woman from 3 years ago who went batshit crazy on the PTA, who apparently does have a speech impediment...is baaaa-aaaack.
So, she was voted in. And honestly? It's like I have ADHD. I'm over the PTA. I rather like being a slacker and am happy that I'm back in the cheap seats.
But I spent an hour of my life listening to this woman mis use and abuse the English language. We had a "mee-in" tonight
And she uses the wrong word--she pronounces those ones just fine, thankyouverymuch. They're just WRONG. As in, I'm having a coherent thought, and OMG! If you mean "overlook" as in "You need to overlook the fact that I cannot pronounce T's and G's" then please, for my sanity, do not say, "They will oversee the fact that I cannot speak in complete thoughts."
I'm overseeing it, baby. Believe me, I'm overseeing it.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
On the First Day of School
My true love gave to me...
A Howler in the fourth grade.
*sigh*(will edit later to add pics.)
A Howler in the fourth grade.
*sigh*(will edit later to add pics.)
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Restraint Is The Better Part of Valor
Apparently, keeping an open mind and ear for trouble is the way to go.
Sometimes, it's good to be the grown up. Things have settled down in the Howler's classroom (and I'm hoping this isn't going to be one of those speaking-too-soon things.) From what I've heard, the children are behaving better, and Miss Thang is behaving better too.
A few nights ago, the Howler tells us during supper that Miss Thang was looking for my email, because she needed to respond to it. What email? What?
The only email I sent was the one she did respond to, and that I had decided to hold off on further action (beyond talking to the guidance counsellor during that chance meeting.) So, I rattled off a quick email, telling the teacher that the Howler said she was trying to reach me, and that I hoped it wasn't because of a problem--but if there was a problem, I very much want to help! Then I gave her the best time the next day to reach me. She emailed back within hours.
No problem, The Howler had told her that I was trying to reach her! Silly Howler.
I had to take the Howler's lunch in today (I didn't get up in time to pack her lunch.) I ran into Miss Thang, and she asked me if I got her email. Miss Thang was very nice, very chipper, and the children seemed happy. The Howler has been happy and chatty and while her attitude has cranked up (thank you, Mother Nature for the crappy weather) and so, for now, I am keeping the status quo.
Let's hope this was just a glitch in the machine, and the next 2 months go well!
Sometimes, it's good to be the grown up. Things have settled down in the Howler's classroom (and I'm hoping this isn't going to be one of those speaking-too-soon things.) From what I've heard, the children are behaving better, and Miss Thang is behaving better too.
A few nights ago, the Howler tells us during supper that Miss Thang was looking for my email, because she needed to respond to it. What email? What?
The only email I sent was the one she did respond to, and that I had decided to hold off on further action (beyond talking to the guidance counsellor during that chance meeting.) So, I rattled off a quick email, telling the teacher that the Howler said she was trying to reach me, and that I hoped it wasn't because of a problem--but if there was a problem, I very much want to help! Then I gave her the best time the next day to reach me. She emailed back within hours.
No problem, The Howler had told her that I was trying to reach her! Silly Howler.
I had to take the Howler's lunch in today (I didn't get up in time to pack her lunch.) I ran into Miss Thang, and she asked me if I got her email. Miss Thang was very nice, very chipper, and the children seemed happy. The Howler has been happy and chatty and while her attitude has cranked up (thank you, Mother Nature for the crappy weather) and so, for now, I am keeping the status quo.
Let's hope this was just a glitch in the machine, and the next 2 months go well!
Monday, March 28, 2011
Curiosity & the Cat
This Mama Cat is curious. And getting curiouser.
The Howler announced this morning, while getting her shoes on to head to school, that she needed to bring pencils today. "Miss 3rd Grade Teacher Thang said that there are no more pencils." And Mama is all "Say what?!"
Oh, not because it's unusual--our district is actually fairly unusual in that it still provides all that school supply stuff for the kids. At least at the elementary level, but because our district does unusually provide those things, I'm surprised that this is what the Howler is saying. I can remember (yes, even that far back!) being in elementary school and the teacher telling us that pencils aren't an unlimited supply and that we need to turn in a stub of a pencil to get a new one (teaches responsibility and keeps ya from spending all day wandering over to the sharpener 'just cuz') but to say that there are absolutely no more pencils coming from the district? (and for the record, I don't have a problem sending pencils in with the Howler. I'm so polluted with pencils I'll send 'em for the entire 3rd grade if they need 'em.)
I'm seriously starting to think that Miss Thang is a tyrant. Who thinks that misrepresenting reality is the best way to endear herself to future generations. God Help Us.
Good thing my boots are now all shiny and ready to go.
The Howler announced this morning, while getting her shoes on to head to school, that she needed to bring pencils today. "Miss 3rd Grade Teacher Thang said that there are no more pencils." And Mama is all "Say what?!"
Oh, not because it's unusual--our district is actually fairly unusual in that it still provides all that school supply stuff for the kids. At least at the elementary level, but because our district does unusually provide those things, I'm surprised that this is what the Howler is saying. I can remember (yes, even that far back!) being in elementary school and the teacher telling us that pencils aren't an unlimited supply and that we need to turn in a stub of a pencil to get a new one (teaches responsibility and keeps ya from spending all day wandering over to the sharpener 'just cuz') but to say that there are absolutely no more pencils coming from the district? (and for the record, I don't have a problem sending pencils in with the Howler. I'm so polluted with pencils I'll send 'em for the entire 3rd grade if they need 'em.)
I'm seriously starting to think that Miss Thang is a tyrant. Who thinks that misrepresenting reality is the best way to endear herself to future generations. God Help Us.
Good thing my boots are now all shiny and ready to go.
Saturday, March 26, 2011
Updated--Pointy Boots Still On Hold
While I was at the school for a PTA fundraising thing yesterday, and as I was leaving, I ran into the guidance counsellor. I will remind you that I don't hold guidance counsellors in much higher esteem than I do bad teachers--my personal experience with most of them is that they became guidance counsellors because they are crappy people who need help themselves, so they thought they'd do best in helping to make more screwed up people like themselves, and actually being a counsellor of any kind would expose them to being sued when they screwed up adults.
But.. Anyway...
The one at the Howler's school seems genuinely concerned for the students. And I've talked with her about some of what happens in our neighborhood--the Urchins situation, and Damien's penchant for hacking up moles with plastic hoes.
I ran into her as I was leaving, and asked if she had a minute. She did, so I asked that we go to her office. (We were exactly outside the Howler's classroom, too) We talked about what's been happening in the Howler's room, and I told her what the Howler said, and without naming anyone, that another adult whom I trust had overheard another child from the Howler's room telling their parent the exact same thing the Howler said. I told her that it was my opinion that Miss Thang did too tell the children that they would be silent from their arrival at school to their dismissal from school until the end of the year.
My concerns are two-fold: First and foremost, if Miss Thang was that upset, stressed, or disturbed by what was going on with those children, she should NOT have been in that classroom. She did not have control of herself, or that classroom Wednesday afternoon. Whatever she and the principal had determined would be the course of action wasn't enough for her--and it should have been. She wasn't in control of herself then, and it can and probably will happen again.
Second, she's been back from maternity for one month. These children have 4 months of experience that she is not part of. They have a group dynamic that she has not been involved in. The 6 weeks from September & October, and the 4 weeks since the end of February is not enough time for her to have learned who they are as individuals and as a group. IF the inappropriate language, gestures, and hurtful actions/words have been on-going throughout the year, then OK, it's this particular group gone 3rd grade bad. BUT if it's just been seen, or escalating since her return, THEN it's time to take a look at how she is acting/reacting to the children, especially as a group, and evaluate if there's something she's doing or saying that is causing them to react this way. (Not that it makes the behaviors okay, but it would explain WHY it's became this ugly)
The Howler, for the most part, enjoys school, and isn't having any major problems academically, or socially. (Which brings me to a lesser question: we just had conferences, WHY wasn't this crap mentioned then...and if I didn't bring it up, WHY didn't she?) I don't want to see this year become a Hell Year, from which we will date all on-going problems with authority, learning, blah blah blah.
If Miss Thang doesn't realize that it's not realistic to come into a classroom after being not-there (no matter how valid the reason) for 4 months--fully 1/2 the year!!--and begin trying to force "her way" on the people there, then it's time for a Free Clue.
Seriously. I work retail, and with the store manager changes we've seen, the ones that get the best response from people in general, are the managers who take their time looking around, observing the group dynamic, determining where changes truly need to be made, then implementing those changes in a calm, reasonable, realistic manner. (The Weasel didn't do that, and it took him fully 2 years to gain any kind of respect from us--and we're adults! I can only imagine that these children, much like hyenas sensing weakness in their prey, are chewing this New Girl Teacher to shreds on a daily basis. They instinctively sense her weak spots and are hammering away on them.)
Mostly, I just want this year over. I want the Howler unscathed. As much as I enjoy a good Righteous Ass Kicking (not my ass, of course), I'd really rather not have to be bothered.
But.. Anyway...
The one at the Howler's school seems genuinely concerned for the students. And I've talked with her about some of what happens in our neighborhood--the Urchins situation, and Damien's penchant for hacking up moles with plastic hoes.
I ran into her as I was leaving, and asked if she had a minute. She did, so I asked that we go to her office. (We were exactly outside the Howler's classroom, too) We talked about what's been happening in the Howler's room, and I told her what the Howler said, and without naming anyone, that another adult whom I trust had overheard another child from the Howler's room telling their parent the exact same thing the Howler said. I told her that it was my opinion that Miss Thang did too tell the children that they would be silent from their arrival at school to their dismissal from school until the end of the year.
My concerns are two-fold: First and foremost, if Miss Thang was that upset, stressed, or disturbed by what was going on with those children, she should NOT have been in that classroom. She did not have control of herself, or that classroom Wednesday afternoon. Whatever she and the principal had determined would be the course of action wasn't enough for her--and it should have been. She wasn't in control of herself then, and it can and probably will happen again.
Second, she's been back from maternity for one month. These children have 4 months of experience that she is not part of. They have a group dynamic that she has not been involved in. The 6 weeks from September & October, and the 4 weeks since the end of February is not enough time for her to have learned who they are as individuals and as a group. IF the inappropriate language, gestures, and hurtful actions/words have been on-going throughout the year, then OK, it's this particular group gone 3rd grade bad. BUT if it's just been seen, or escalating since her return, THEN it's time to take a look at how she is acting/reacting to the children, especially as a group, and evaluate if there's something she's doing or saying that is causing them to react this way. (Not that it makes the behaviors okay, but it would explain WHY it's became this ugly)
The Howler, for the most part, enjoys school, and isn't having any major problems academically, or socially. (Which brings me to a lesser question: we just had conferences, WHY wasn't this crap mentioned then...and if I didn't bring it up, WHY didn't she?) I don't want to see this year become a Hell Year, from which we will date all on-going problems with authority, learning, blah blah blah.
If Miss Thang doesn't realize that it's not realistic to come into a classroom after being not-there (no matter how valid the reason) for 4 months--fully 1/2 the year!!--and begin trying to force "her way" on the people there, then it's time for a Free Clue.
Seriously. I work retail, and with the store manager changes we've seen, the ones that get the best response from people in general, are the managers who take their time looking around, observing the group dynamic, determining where changes truly need to be made, then implementing those changes in a calm, reasonable, realistic manner. (The Weasel didn't do that, and it took him fully 2 years to gain any kind of respect from us--and we're adults! I can only imagine that these children, much like hyenas sensing weakness in their prey, are chewing this New Girl Teacher to shreds on a daily basis. They instinctively sense her weak spots and are hammering away on them.)
Mostly, I just want this year over. I want the Howler unscathed. As much as I enjoy a good Righteous Ass Kicking (not my ass, of course), I'd really rather not have to be bothered.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
The Magic 8 Ball Is Never Wrong
Kinda. I started a post earlier today about how I respect teachers in general, and how I especially respect and stand in awe of excellent teachers...but how a few bad nutbar people ruin it for everyone.
I've decided to go through with the post. Mostly because the thing has my teeth on edge, and my back up. I'm looking for some college educated ass to kick. At the Howler's school.
This year has been a year of disappoint for us. She was supposed to have this awesomely fantastic teacher, who bailed out of our school for a district closer to where he lives. Which I can understand, but can I still just say, "You couldn't have waited ONE more freaking year? Seriously!" Instead she got this replacement. Adorable young thing, I assume she's just a year or so out of college. It's unclear whether or not this is her first year with her very own classroom.
I'm not impressed. First, she got the job while she was, I kid you not, 7 months pregnant. Knowing full well that she would miss fully half the year, she got the job. And the contingency plan was just flat out Slacker. I know me some slacker when I see it, and this chicklet was it. So, I'm totally 100% dead on with lack-of-impressiveness when it comes to teachers this year.
Anyway, the one who had a baby has been back a month. There were very few behavorial problems--and believe me, the Howler is more than willing to rat out every one of those nasty OPK in her class. She even managed to rat herself out more than once, but there were no major traumas going on with the Slacker.
But this woman? She's back just about 30 days now, and WOW! There's a nasty little incident with 2 boys smashing a playdoh person they made and named...and the principal arrived in the classroom to discuss how the children should handle a situation where they don't want to be friends with someone. AFTER the principal leaves, this woman tells the children that for the remainder of the year, there will be absolutely NO TALKING during the school day, unless you are specifically given permission by her. Not during lunch, not in the AM when you arrive at school, not while waiting for dismissal after school. No Talking. Period. Oh, and for good measure, IF you're given recess at all, it will be indoors--even on nice days--and you will be doing nothing but work work work without a break in the meantime.
At first, I thought the Howler MUST HAVE misunderstood. But during a PTA related conversation, I discover that this PTA person overheard conversation a child from the Howler's class was having with her mother. EXACT SAME WORDING. And this other little girl ain't no drama queen that I've seen or heard. She's fairly laid back, extremely non-overreacting.
I had already emailed the teacher, asking for clarification, while spelling out specifically what the Howler had said. The response was sent at 9:22am (plenty of time for her to have her attitude adjusted) today. While the words are right, I get the feeling that what I got told was the adjusted, suitable for parental consumption turn of events.
The Howler came home from school today, fairly happy, if tired after being out sick for 2 days, and having a busy Wednesday/early Thursday morning. So, the Miss Thang gets a "bye" for now...but I'll be in the school tomorrow for another purpose, and there better not be any surprises. I've already polished my ass kicking boots, and this little whackadoodle has definite target characteristics.
Oh, and before the Howler got home, I consulted the Magic 8 Ball. This thing has NEVER been wrong, and I do mean NEVER. Even the Toad has tried it, and it's NEVER wrong.
I asked, "Is Mrs. Thang lying?" and the Magic Answer was, "It is decidedly so."
I've decided to go through with the post. Mostly because the thing has my teeth on edge, and my back up. I'm looking for some college educated ass to kick. At the Howler's school.
This year has been a year of disappoint for us. She was supposed to have this awesomely fantastic teacher, who bailed out of our school for a district closer to where he lives. Which I can understand, but can I still just say, "You couldn't have waited ONE more freaking year? Seriously!" Instead she got this replacement. Adorable young thing, I assume she's just a year or so out of college. It's unclear whether or not this is her first year with her very own classroom.
I'm not impressed. First, she got the job while she was, I kid you not, 7 months pregnant. Knowing full well that she would miss fully half the year, she got the job. And the contingency plan was just flat out Slacker. I know me some slacker when I see it, and this chicklet was it. So, I'm totally 100% dead on with lack-of-impressiveness when it comes to teachers this year.
Anyway, the one who had a baby has been back a month. There were very few behavorial problems--and believe me, the Howler is more than willing to rat out every one of those nasty OPK in her class. She even managed to rat herself out more than once, but there were no major traumas going on with the Slacker.
But this woman? She's back just about 30 days now, and WOW! There's a nasty little incident with 2 boys smashing a playdoh person they made and named...and the principal arrived in the classroom to discuss how the children should handle a situation where they don't want to be friends with someone. AFTER the principal leaves, this woman tells the children that for the remainder of the year, there will be absolutely NO TALKING during the school day, unless you are specifically given permission by her. Not during lunch, not in the AM when you arrive at school, not while waiting for dismissal after school. No Talking. Period. Oh, and for good measure, IF you're given recess at all, it will be indoors--even on nice days--and you will be doing nothing but work work work without a break in the meantime.
At first, I thought the Howler MUST HAVE misunderstood. But during a PTA related conversation, I discover that this PTA person overheard conversation a child from the Howler's class was having with her mother. EXACT SAME WORDING. And this other little girl ain't no drama queen that I've seen or heard. She's fairly laid back, extremely non-overreacting.
I had already emailed the teacher, asking for clarification, while spelling out specifically what the Howler had said. The response was sent at 9:22am (plenty of time for her to have her attitude adjusted) today. While the words are right, I get the feeling that what I got told was the adjusted, suitable for parental consumption turn of events.
The Howler came home from school today, fairly happy, if tired after being out sick for 2 days, and having a busy Wednesday/early Thursday morning. So, the Miss Thang gets a "bye" for now...but I'll be in the school tomorrow for another purpose, and there better not be any surprises. I've already polished my ass kicking boots, and this little whackadoodle has definite target characteristics.
Oh, and before the Howler got home, I consulted the Magic 8 Ball. This thing has NEVER been wrong, and I do mean NEVER. Even the Toad has tried it, and it's NEVER wrong.
I asked, "Is Mrs. Thang lying?" and the Magic Answer was, "It is decidedly so."
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
11 Kinds of Sad; 7 Kinds of Happy
PSSA testing started yesterday. (That's the stardardized tests for proficiency in the PA schools.)
When the Toad went to school, even elementary, the dayumed teachers--the idiots--actually told the kids that if they didn't do well on the tests, teachers would lose their jobs. Then, they couldn't figure out why the kids were 40billion kinds of stressed-out sick in the weeks before test.
Nowadays, they tell the kids the tests are important, but they don't stress out the kids like that. They let the kids have breaks (real breaks, not a "why do you need to go to the bathroom again?" break) with bottles of water and snacks. Extra recess if possible, for those grades whose scores will determine budget $$ and staffing. The school also provides breakfast this week for every child in those determining grade levels.
On Monday, the Howler (and, yes, of course, every other child in her class) were told that they weren't to bring their usual water bottle and snack to school. And that they could eat breakfast at school.
The Howler went to 11 kinds of spazz, and had a meltdown fit. The Gator was worried enough about the spazz out to call her neighbor, who also happens to be a teacher at the Howler's school, to clarify what was happening.
The meltdown continued, in varying degrees the rest of the evening.
When I arrived home after work, at about 9:45pm, the phone rang within seconds of my walking in the door. It was the Gator.
"Did your Sweetie tell you about her water bottle?"
"I literally just walked in the door."
"Well, he'll tell you, but I checked it all out, and everything is fine."
"Okay. I literally just walked in the door."
"I checked it all out! It's all OK."
So, when I hung up the phone, I asked My Sweetie, "Was the Howler's water bottle turned into a bomb?"
"uh, no. I take it that was the Gator?"
"Yeah. And apparently, her water bottle was a bomb, and the Gator got it diffused in time."
Needless to say, her water bottle was NOT a bomb, and the Gator is just nuts. My Sweetie explained the entire meltdown for me.
In the morning, she wasn't in that much of a hurry to get ready for school. She did manage to get ready and out the door to meet the bus on time, though. She was still quite a few shades of apprehensive and unhappy.
When she barrelled in the door later that same day, though, she was 7 kinds of happiness, announcing that she would be eating breakfast at school every morning this week. And that she was not dehydrated, because she received a bottle of water and a tasty-good snack. And she was given a piece of peppermint gum to chew while taking the tests.
And, mostly, she LOOOOOOOOOOOVES taking these tests. It's the bestest EVER.
Sometimes, I think my darling Howler is a Drama Queen. And, that day, I knew for absolutely sure and certain, she IS a Drama Queen.
When the Toad went to school, even elementary, the dayumed teachers--the idiots--actually told the kids that if they didn't do well on the tests, teachers would lose their jobs. Then, they couldn't figure out why the kids were 40billion kinds of stressed-out sick in the weeks before test.
Nowadays, they tell the kids the tests are important, but they don't stress out the kids like that. They let the kids have breaks (real breaks, not a "why do you need to go to the bathroom again?" break) with bottles of water and snacks. Extra recess if possible, for those grades whose scores will determine budget $$ and staffing. The school also provides breakfast this week for every child in those determining grade levels.
On Monday, the Howler (and, yes, of course, every other child in her class) were told that they weren't to bring their usual water bottle and snack to school. And that they could eat breakfast at school.
The Howler went to 11 kinds of spazz, and had a meltdown fit. The Gator was worried enough about the spazz out to call her neighbor, who also happens to be a teacher at the Howler's school, to clarify what was happening.
The meltdown continued, in varying degrees the rest of the evening.
When I arrived home after work, at about 9:45pm, the phone rang within seconds of my walking in the door. It was the Gator.
"Did your Sweetie tell you about her water bottle?"
"I literally just walked in the door."
"Well, he'll tell you, but I checked it all out, and everything is fine."
"Okay. I literally just walked in the door."
"I checked it all out! It's all OK."
So, when I hung up the phone, I asked My Sweetie, "Was the Howler's water bottle turned into a bomb?"
"uh, no. I take it that was the Gator?"
"Yeah. And apparently, her water bottle was a bomb, and the Gator got it diffused in time."
Needless to say, her water bottle was NOT a bomb, and the Gator is just nuts. My Sweetie explained the entire meltdown for me.
In the morning, she wasn't in that much of a hurry to get ready for school. She did manage to get ready and out the door to meet the bus on time, though. She was still quite a few shades of apprehensive and unhappy.
When she barrelled in the door later that same day, though, she was 7 kinds of happiness, announcing that she would be eating breakfast at school every morning this week. And that she was not dehydrated, because she received a bottle of water and a tasty-good snack. And she was given a piece of peppermint gum to chew while taking the tests.
And, mostly, she LOOOOOOOOOOOVES taking these tests. It's the bestest EVER.
Sometimes, I think my darling Howler is a Drama Queen. And, that day, I knew for absolutely sure and certain, she IS a Drama Queen.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Ash Wednesday
At our non-Catholic house, we are meatless on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. This about kills Mr Mumple, and apparently, the Howler is following in her father's footsteps.
Today's school lunch menu choices were mac-n-cheese or chicken nuggets. This is a hard decision, because noodles of any kind and chicken nuggets are both basic food groups for the Howler.
I reminded her that today was Ash Wednesday, and therefore, meatless. Chicken nuggets, by the loosest of definitions, are meat. Being the Drama Queen she is, the Howler proceeds to be VERY traumatized by the prospects.
Being a bad Episcopalian, but a good Mom, I tell her to listen carefully: If you "forget" that you're not supposed to eat meat today, and get the chicken nuggets anyway, nobody will be upset, not even God. God didn't make that rule, so if you "accidently" eat chicken nuggets at school for lunch, no one will be upset.
When she got home today after school, the Howler told me about lunch. She got the mac-n-cheese (good girl!) but told her friends why she had to have the mac-n-cheese.
Being good friends, the girls each broke some of their chicken nuggets in half and gave half to the Howler. Being a polite girl (sometimes) the Howler was obligated to accept and consume the chicken nuggets (that's my baby!)
When she told me, I damaged a rib trying not to laugh out loud.
Today's school lunch menu choices were mac-n-cheese or chicken nuggets. This is a hard decision, because noodles of any kind and chicken nuggets are both basic food groups for the Howler.
I reminded her that today was Ash Wednesday, and therefore, meatless. Chicken nuggets, by the loosest of definitions, are meat. Being the Drama Queen she is, the Howler proceeds to be VERY traumatized by the prospects.
Being a bad Episcopalian, but a good Mom, I tell her to listen carefully: If you "forget" that you're not supposed to eat meat today, and get the chicken nuggets anyway, nobody will be upset, not even God. God didn't make that rule, so if you "accidently" eat chicken nuggets at school for lunch, no one will be upset.
When she got home today after school, the Howler told me about lunch. She got the mac-n-cheese (good girl!) but told her friends why she had to have the mac-n-cheese.
Being good friends, the girls each broke some of their chicken nuggets in half and gave half to the Howler. Being a polite girl (sometimes) the Howler was obligated to accept and consume the chicken nuggets (that's my baby!)
When she told me, I damaged a rib trying not to laugh out loud.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Please Explain
The big hoopla at the schools this Christmas season is the "play" the 4th & 5th graders are putting on across the district. It's based on the greenhouse effect, and yaps, apparently, about Santa and how all our American Consumerism is killing the elves. Letters to the editor don't get too specific, and I haven't seen the thing myself, but it there are actually parents who have pulled their children from participating in it.
Today, the Howler watched an animated video about the meaning and history of Hanukkah.
Please explain to me why it's okay to have the children brow beat their parents with music that says we're killing Santa and the elves, and why is it okay to have the children exposed to Jewish religious traditions and beliefs, but we can't have Christian prayer in public schools?
Today, the Howler watched an animated video about the meaning and history of Hanukkah.
Please explain to me why it's okay to have the children brow beat their parents with music that says we're killing Santa and the elves, and why is it okay to have the children exposed to Jewish religious traditions and beliefs, but we can't have Christian prayer in public schools?
Thursday, December 2, 2010
You Dirty Rat
So tonight I went, as the fundraising co ordinator, to the meeting for 5th grade parents about their trip in the spring. It's a big deal to the kids, and a lot of money...crap loads of money. I was there because depending on a few variables like bus cost and where they were actually going to go, the families of 5th graders might need to do more than a little fundraising.
Turns out, there were funds made available that we had previously been told wouldn't be. YAY!
Several of the Moms kept looking at me like they were trying to figure out which of the 5th graders were mine... and since fundraising for just the 5th graders will be minimal, I was pretty much there as an interested observer. (Although I did get to ask the committee to please let me know their projected fundraising dates before getting them confirmed so that I could be sure that the crap I'm handling won't conflict with theirs. Nobody makes money when the fundraising is all smack up against each other)
One of 'em made the comment that the last hoagie sale would've done better if the delivery date hadn't been on a Friday...well, DUH. It's already been noted: we were pressed for time, and were limited by the availability of the school for sorting and the company's availability to deliver when it wouldn't run into school dismissal with buses and all that. Neener neener
Then, suddenly, there were questions about the much anticipated and feared renovation. Still no firm start date (nothing better than "March 2011) and so I asked about changes for morning drop off*
Yes, I ratted those useless women out. I haven't seen hide nor hair of 'em the past 2 days. Not even in the doorway. And there was the day a few weeks ago when they stood there, totally useless and unhelpful, when whatever the unloading issue was lead a mom to coast her vehicle forward with the passenger door hanging open and the child in the front seat. By the time I got the Howler unloaded and pulled past, the mom was still 1/2 way in the lane, and those two useless lumps were still just standing there.
Oh, yeah. I'm sure they'll be told by someone who it was that ratted them out. And I don't even care. I'm sure no one likes a "tattletale" but you know what? What I witnessed a few weeks ago wasn't safe, and it wasn't right.
I'm meeting with the principal tomorrow AM to ensure that those dayumed hoagies don't get delivered again on a Friday...if she asks I do know who it was, and I will tell her that, too.
Turns out, there were funds made available that we had previously been told wouldn't be. YAY!
Several of the Moms kept looking at me like they were trying to figure out which of the 5th graders were mine... and since fundraising for just the 5th graders will be minimal, I was pretty much there as an interested observer. (Although I did get to ask the committee to please let me know their projected fundraising dates before getting them confirmed so that I could be sure that the crap I'm handling won't conflict with theirs. Nobody makes money when the fundraising is all smack up against each other)
One of 'em made the comment that the last hoagie sale would've done better if the delivery date hadn't been on a Friday...well, DUH. It's already been noted: we were pressed for time, and were limited by the availability of the school for sorting and the company's availability to deliver when it wouldn't run into school dismissal with buses and all that. Neener neener
Then, suddenly, there were questions about the much anticipated and feared renovation. Still no firm start date (nothing better than "March 2011) and so I asked about changes for morning drop off*
Yes, I ratted those useless women out. I haven't seen hide nor hair of 'em the past 2 days. Not even in the doorway. And there was the day a few weeks ago when they stood there, totally useless and unhelpful, when whatever the unloading issue was lead a mom to coast her vehicle forward with the passenger door hanging open and the child in the front seat. By the time I got the Howler unloaded and pulled past, the mom was still 1/2 way in the lane, and those two useless lumps were still just standing there.
Oh, yeah. I'm sure they'll be told by someone who it was that ratted them out. And I don't even care. I'm sure no one likes a "tattletale" but you know what? What I witnessed a few weeks ago wasn't safe, and it wasn't right.
I'm meeting with the principal tomorrow AM to ensure that those dayumed hoagies don't get delivered again on a Friday...if she asks I do know who it was, and I will tell her that, too.
Ah-May-ZING!
It's amazing what a little parent concern can do--the Howler's classroom has had leaks (that I've heard about thru that fantastic grapevine at school) for the past 3 years.
And this year, my Howler got to come home and tell me about the 2 leaks they had buckets under every time it rained so far this year.
UNTIL....the fateful day when the "waterlogged ceiling tile" crashed down during recess. On my baby's desk.
Since it was recess, the children where milling about the room, doing their children-type stuff. The Howler wasn't at her desk at the time, but she couldn't return to her desk until the water and bits of tile were cleaned up.
I emailed the principal about this--I understand that the renovation is coming, starting in March '11. And I understand that fixing this roof is something the school district has put off, and off, and off, because that renovation is coming.
But, er, ah, DUH. There's a sagging, dripping, waterlogged ceiling tile over these children's heads. And it's crashing down, by the grace of God, when it's mostly "safe" for the kids that sit directly underneath it.
The principal emailed me back--she believes it's an unusual occasion for a tile to actually break apart and FALL, waterlogged or not. And that the mess was cleaned up in an appropriate time. And that it did, indeed, fall on my Baby's desk during recess. And that the area around where all this drippage and soakage occurred is dry and not discolored or otherwise damaged... blah blah blah.
Two days ago, in Western PA, we were drowning in cold, bitter, 1st of December rain. Some places near us cancelled school due to flooding.
But not the Howler's school.
Because the flooding was OUTSIDE the building...and no drips, drops, soakage, or otherwise inappropriate water was INSIDE her classroom.
Amazing.
And this year, my Howler got to come home and tell me about the 2 leaks they had buckets under every time it rained so far this year.
UNTIL....the fateful day when the "waterlogged ceiling tile" crashed down during recess. On my baby's desk.
Since it was recess, the children where milling about the room, doing their children-type stuff. The Howler wasn't at her desk at the time, but she couldn't return to her desk until the water and bits of tile were cleaned up.
I emailed the principal about this--I understand that the renovation is coming, starting in March '11. And I understand that fixing this roof is something the school district has put off, and off, and off, because that renovation is coming.
But, er, ah, DUH. There's a sagging, dripping, waterlogged ceiling tile over these children's heads. And it's crashing down, by the grace of God, when it's mostly "safe" for the kids that sit directly underneath it.
The principal emailed me back--she believes it's an unusual occasion for a tile to actually break apart and FALL, waterlogged or not. And that the mess was cleaned up in an appropriate time. And that it did, indeed, fall on my Baby's desk during recess. And that the area around where all this drippage and soakage occurred is dry and not discolored or otherwise damaged... blah blah blah.
Two days ago, in Western PA, we were drowning in cold, bitter, 1st of December rain. Some places near us cancelled school due to flooding.
But not the Howler's school.
Because the flooding was OUTSIDE the building...and no drips, drops, soakage, or otherwise inappropriate water was INSIDE her classroom.
Amazing.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Homework Sucks
The Howler is required to do a Native American project to finish her social studies unit.
Yippee.
Except that she refuses to write anything longer than her name. Hell, last year, she figured out the "Mumple" is actually 1 letter shorter than her given surname, and spent fully half the year using "Mumple" on her papers. That one letter was either too expensive for her 2nd grade budget, or it just flat out took too much time. (Yes, folks, she's spend her time figuring out how to get OUT of doing something, rather than just suck it up and do it. Wonder where she gets that from?)
Anyway, we have no actual social studies information coming home, except that she's required to do this end of unit project. Please explain that to me? I know that it means that the child is to do the work (and Mom and Dad having no clue other than their own vague 3rd grade social studies memories of the Indian unit) but seriously? How could we even be sure that what she was telling us is actually what they learned?
Do these people even KNOW the Howler? Do these people realize the slacker Mom she has going against her, and her over-think the thing Father she's got? (yeah, My Sweetie spent fully 30 minutes over thinking the Longhouse plans--BUILDING PLANS for a scale model, no lie--beforer her mother stepped in and used a manilla folder to show the man the basics, and how they fit into the shoebox that will be used for the dayumed diorama.
Apparently, he was also going to begin researching how to tan deer hide for authentic Indian outfits for the plastic Dora the Explorer figurines we'd be using too. Sheesh.
Homework sucks.
Yippee.
Except that she refuses to write anything longer than her name. Hell, last year, she figured out the "Mumple" is actually 1 letter shorter than her given surname, and spent fully half the year using "Mumple" on her papers. That one letter was either too expensive for her 2nd grade budget, or it just flat out took too much time. (Yes, folks, she's spend her time figuring out how to get OUT of doing something, rather than just suck it up and do it. Wonder where she gets that from?)
Anyway, we have no actual social studies information coming home, except that she's required to do this end of unit project. Please explain that to me? I know that it means that the child is to do the work (and Mom and Dad having no clue other than their own vague 3rd grade social studies memories of the Indian unit) but seriously? How could we even be sure that what she was telling us is actually what they learned?
Do these people even KNOW the Howler? Do these people realize the slacker Mom she has going against her, and her over-think the thing Father she's got? (yeah, My Sweetie spent fully 30 minutes over thinking the Longhouse plans--BUILDING PLANS for a scale model, no lie--beforer her mother stepped in and used a manilla folder to show the man the basics, and how they fit into the shoebox that will be used for the dayumed diorama.
Apparently, he was also going to begin researching how to tan deer hide for authentic Indian outfits for the plastic Dora the Explorer figurines we'd be using too. Sheesh.
Homework sucks.
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