Day 90: Checked Out

I gave a test yesterday to all of my students.  My math 8 students failed it.

Every single one.

They could use their notes, the ones they took as well as the ones I provided for them, and they had plenty of time.

And they failed it.

None of the interventions that I've tried seem to be working.

In addition to this, last night, our school board approved a reorganization plan for the district.  Among other things, it means that next year, the 7th and 8th grade will be moving up the high school with 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades.  While this is a step in the direction that I think my district needs to go, there is a real possibility that I will lose my job as a result.

There is an even more real possibility that I will not be teaching geometry any more as more senior faculty members are likely to get it on their schedules.

All of this was more than I was able to handle today.

I printed the work for my math 8 class and set it on a desk.  I sat next to it and worked on a crossword puzzle.

When I didn't give directions, my first period took upon themselves to read the Pledge to Improved Mathematics and do the Estimation 180 exercise of the day.  Then, without my asking them to, they picked up the worksheets that were next to me and began to work.

When they had questions, they asked me.  I patiently answered them or guided them in the proper direction.

I find it fascinating that when I left them alone completely, they did what I wanted, but as soon as I ask them to, the defiance comes out and they refuse.

I am hoping that EduCon this weekend will rejuvenate me, remind me of my purpose and goal and help me to find my center again.


The majority of the geometry class was on a field trip.  The few who remained played Prime Climb.  They enjoyed it.