Posted by Betty on January 12, 2000 at 07:42:33:
In Reply to: School Board Membeer posted by John on January 09, 2000 at 11:01:36:
John, don't panic, but I think you've got a problem! First, you've got to ask yourself why this board member is interested in observing you in the classroom. I'm no mind-reader, but I think this person is concerned about what kind of job you're doing. I know you probably wrote this message in the wee hours of the morning and you intended it for our eyes only, but--and I'm being brutally honest, here, John--this doesn't read like a message from an educator. "board membeer?" You may be wonderful with your class, charismatic, stimulating, inspiring...but if board members, principals, parents, and others of that ilk stop by your classroom and see misspellings on the board or hear poor grammar, THAT's what you're going to be judged on! Your problem is not when to talk to this person, but what this person is listening for. I hope I'm wrong, buddy, but I think this calls for a 'heads up.' Get your mentoring teacher, or someone you trust, to check out your classroom, first. Have you put up bulletin boards or notices with misspellings or errors in them? Get them corrected! Things like that are like a wad of chewing gum in the middle of a shiny hardwood floor...they detract from the beauty of what you're trying to do with kids. Watch your language...don't let folks catch you speaking less than the best. Okay, now suppose I'm wrong about this...what other reason could this board member have for stopping by? Let's suppose it's good...he or she is impressed. Then keep on doing just what you're doing. Acknowledge them with a wave or smile, but don't stop teaching!!! That's what you've been hired to do. Also, ask around. Does this particular board member visit everyone often. Some like to be in the schools every day, some never darken the door. If this one is acting uncharacteristically for him, or her, then we're back to my first premise: you may have a problem. Just remember, board members aren't the ones who hired you...your principal is your evaluator. How are things in that arena? Good luck!