Time is my enemy

I can't imagine a teacher's day that is more demanding than a journalism teacher's. We must wear so many hats--educator, adviser, coach, peacemaker, money maker, salesman (both of ourselves and of our products) and so much more.

Monday starts with lesson plans (are they done and submitted? Sigh, no). The time I would devote to them ends up with students at my door and at my desk. They don't just want help with journalism but with getting along with another teacher, working setting up an interview, finding out the scores, working on a lead, pitching a story idea. I can't stop them and I need time to look at them and see how they are. I don't like finding out a kiddo I've been razzing just lost a cousin to a shoot out in his apartments. Take time and breath. Find out what they need.

Lesson plans wait.

Students don't.

There is a rule at my school that outsiders can't call into the classroom. So how is it my phone rings on average five times each class? It's insiders. Could I send someone to the office? (No, they are out taking photos.) Could I send someone to take photos of a project they have finished? (Sure, but next time could you let us in on the front end? ) Did I know that I have kids in the hallway? Did I know they were disturbing their class?

The bell rings. Five minutes till the next group arrives. No time for a bathroom break. I'm supposed to stand at my door and greet them. I would except I'm still talking to several from last block and busily writing them passes so they won't be counted tardy.

Sometimes I have to stop to see what class is coming in. Block schedule keeps me confused.

So it goes all day. I arrive at the end exhausted and enthralled and glad that I chose journalism as my subject.

Judy Babb
West Mesquite HS
Mesquite, Texas