Frustrated with DD's Teacher... HAD MTG TODAY UPDATE...

[minmate]

We just moved to Minnesota a few days before the school year. Prior to that my dd5 was in preschool for three years in Massachusetts. My older dd was in kindergarten last year (half-days in Mass). I have many friends and relatives who are teachers. I, myself, have taught young children. Education is a big priority for me. My dd5 has always enjoyed going to school. Here, she hates it. I have been trying to talk to her teacher and the principal. But I fear, I'm just making things worse by making them think I'm some East Coast @@tch coming in trying to tell them how to run things. But here's my major issues with her teacher:
1) I do not like her teaching style: She has little to no command of the kids.They barely listen when she speaks. She doesn't give very clear instructions and the general atmosphere of the classroom doesn't feel very well organized/structured/focused or controlled by the teacher.

2) I don't like their schedule. (Not the teacher's fault totallY). They every other day... so someweeks they go MWF, then T/TH, then back to MWF. And if there is a holiday, it gets even more confused. As forthe daily schedule. School starts at 9:15 w/about a 5 minute loudspeaker thing (normal), and then the kids go to their "specials" at 10:05 (20 mins of Gym/20 Mins of either art or music afterthat). This givesthe teacher from roughly 40/45 minutes with the kids to teach them something in the a.m.

They eat lunch at 10:50 and have recess after that. I believe they wind up back in the classroom somewhere around 11:30/11:45. If 11:30, that gives her until the end of the day (3:37) to teach... which is a good 4 hours. But during that four hours, she gives them another hour of free play, 30 minutes for snack and bathroom break, and last week when I volunteered, it was library day which takes up another 30-45 minutes. The librarian reads them astory then they willy-nilly check out books (not necessarily attheir reading level)... and then she had me bring the kids back to the classroom to sit in circle, where she handed out papers to go home and the kids would step all over each other getting to her, then going into the hallway to get their coats and backpacks. She started doing this (ending the day at 2:55). At 3:17, she was walking them down to the bus (very SLOWLY as she put it to me... in order to waste more time I presumed). The other time I volunteered, she let them have a second recess in the p.m. where library would have been. So, I HATE that they are in school 6 1/2 hours and they spend so much time walking around, waiting, getting in line, having free time but NOT learning! I think the schedule is terrible and she makes very inefficient use of her time.

3) She is still figuring out where all her kids are academically. They've been in school (b/c of the everyother day thing) 13 days, but that's 15% of the school year... and she still doesn't know my kid can read!!! I even told her that two weeks ago!

4) I don't think she has a positive internal effort going on. She's made comments to me repeatedly about how unruly this particular class is, how unbelievable it is what some of them can and can't do...how it's so hard (23 kids, no assistant... yet. supposedly the teacher is getting her one)... comments (with naming names) of having so many "cryers" in her classroom, and of how she blatantly wastes time (that whole, let's walk very SLOWLY to the bus).

5) They don't get any homework to make the every other day thing flow very well, and the work I have seen come from her is very unfocused and insubstantial.

6) My dd gets anxious and cries about going to school and says she is bored and misses me. Her teacher says she's happy there (which is typical of her to act that way b/c she wouldn't want to disappoint her teacher). She does like her teacher and is making some friends there. But she also complains it is all unfamiliar and she doesn't like that.

7) We are in the process of getting dd officially diagnosed with SPD (Sensory Perception Disorder) -- it is likely quite mild, but she tends to absorb all emotions and sensations going on around her to a greater degree than others. Think shopping on Christmas Eve at an overpacked mall, without having eaten all day, add in the frustration that you've forgotten your purse/wallet, and have to go home to a houseful of sniping in-laws and be happy while watching 23 children open presents and go berzerk from sugar overload. This is what the day is like for her in this classroom. She is prone to a higher level of anxiety than most kids to begin with too, plus this... So, she comes home hyper and then finally crashes from emotional and sensory exhaustion and I'm left to deal with the wreckage and it's terribly emotionally draining and makes it very hard on our family life.

I feel that she needs to be in an academically challenging classroom with a teacher who has a structured, organized teaching style, that uses her time efficiently and infuses fun into the program. A teacher who can get and keep her students' attention and who has great time-management skills. Kids are sponges at this age. My dd really wants to please and learn, and she doesn't know what's expected of her in this classroom and she complains that she isn't learning anything new.

She can sit home and play with legos here with her siblings. I can take her to the park. The teacher can have active learning -- play games to get the kids moving butto learn... but instead she gives them free time to move around and doesn't put in any extra effort. She's been a teacher for 22 years and I doubt she'll change. I know she's as frustrated with me as I am with her. I don't want her to feel that way, but she accuses me of comparing her to teachers in Massachusetts when I give her ideas of what I'd like to see in the classroom.

I can't afford to put her in private school. I've considered homeschooling her and have done some of that on the days she has off... but I'd really, just like to create a better experience for her in the classroom. What can I say or do to effect that kind of change? Should I push for her to be switched and risk her being sad about not being in class with the friends she's already made? That would increase her anxiety on some levels. Or should I just stop making such a big deal? I've given lots of suggestions but I don't see them really considering them.

I can't spend another nearly 8 months living through these anxiety-ridden days she has and watching her explode at night after such a crazy day jostling between chaos and boredom.

I have a meeting on Thursday with the principal and the teacher. what points should I focus on and how do I go about this? I know they're getting sick of me and I don't want that reputation either. But I have to stand up for my dd don't I? Help.... advice please!

 

[justhat]

Sorry to hear about your daughter's classroom situation. You have other kids though right? How are their classes? Is it just this particular teacher or is it the whole school that is sort of lax in their teaching style? I taught in a preschool before my daughter was born so I know how kids really thrive on consistency, and that does not change once they hit kindergarten so I can imagine how anxiety provoking it is for your daughter.

If you can move her to another class, and know you know that class is more structured, I'd probably do that. Otherwise, I know you said you can't afford private school, but can you afford maybe a preschool that has a kindergarten? That might be a good alternative so that way you wouldn't have to worry about her current teacher complaining to the new teacher about you.

Good luck with your decision. I can imagine how hard it is for you and your daughter (and whole family) to go through.

 

[mickeyboat]

I have two DD's in K this year, so to a certain extent, I can relate to your post. But I view your experiences in your DD's classroom much differently than you do.

The MWF / TTH scheduling sounds like a nightmare. I don't know how even I would be able to keep track of that, let alone how the kids can feel any security in it. As far as how the class's day is scheduled, small kids have short attention spans and lots of energy. I think it's a great idea to break up the day with periods of recess and free play, to keep the kids from being bored and getting burnt out.

Kindergarten is about so much more than learning academics. There will be many years of being chained to the desk listening to lectures.
Many of your daughter's classmates have never experienced a school environment, so part of the learning going on is about how to be a student. How to line up, take turns, greet your classmates, and listen to instructions. They are also learning how to make friends. Specials and free play encourage this type of learning. Learning in K is done through play. So what may look to you like a waste of time, may be a valuable learning experience.

Your library example really struck a cord with me. My kids LOVE the library. They enjoy picking out something that they might like. It reinforces what their current interests might be, and encourages new interests as well. They learn about how to behave in a library, the responsibility of borrowing a book, and how to care for it once they have it. They are also paying much closer attention to the days of the week, because they know if they don't return their book on the right day, they have to wait a week to choose another one. This is learning they will carry with them long after they have mastered their ABC's.

I think your complaint about the staffing is right on. The classroom does need an assistant to deal with behavioral problems so that the teacher can concentrate on teaching as opposed to the crying and bad behavior. My kids have reported to me that there have been children removed from their classroom for repeated bad behavior. I hope they get an assistant soon.

It sounds to me that your complaint about the over-all picture is not with the teacher, but with the curriculum. You don't like specials, free time, and recess. Changing teachers will not correct that. If you intend to keep your daughter in this school system, you will have to learn to deal with they way they choose to teach.

Your daughter will face many situations in her life that she does not like, or that are difficult for her to deal with. There is a fine line between advocating for your child and swooping in to fix everything. Tread that line carefully.

If you go into your meeting in the principal and the teacher with the same attitude you are showing in this post, you will do more harm than good for your daughter. It will only put the staff on the defensive, and make you look like a trouble-maker. I think you need to phrase your discussion not in terms of what they are doing wrong, but in terms of something concrete that your daughter needs to make her learning experience the best one for her. Tell them about your problems with her at home, and ask for suggestions about what can be done to help, especially in light of your daughter's sensory issues. Ask if there is some sort of enrichment program available.

I ask this as gently as I can, but do you think your daughter is picking up on your dissatisfaction about her schooling and manifesting it in her complaining? I try really hard not to complain about the girls' school in front of them.

Good luck in your meeting.

Denae

 

[Miss Inga Depointe]

You reminded me of me when we moved from the East Coast to the mid-West when our kids were little and I'll share my story with you but just take it for what it is worth. I really don't want to suggest that you are over reacting, well, just listen to my experience.

My husband got a big promotion and we were happy and all but looking back, I think I was very depressed about the move and I became very unhappy with just about everything at the kids' school. It took me about a year to realize that things weren't as bad as I'd thought they were and that I was just homesick for the way things used to be. And they were different, no doubt about that, but now that I really look back on those days, I can see that while some things weren't as good as the east coast, some things were better, and it just all worked out fine.

Just make sure you are taking care of yourself and try to relax. Maybe things won't be so bad after you get used to the move.

And, you know, sorry if this doesn't really apply to you at all.

 

[CheshireVal]

I'm sorry, but that list of complaints is so long that it makes me think you're overreacting a LOT.

 

[swilphil]

I'd recommend either switching teachers or switching schools. You should be able to switch to another school in your district. If they give you flack about that, go to the district office. Does Minnesota still have open enrollment? If they do, I think that means you can transfer to other schools in the area even if it's a different district.

Also is this the first year for the every other day schedule? The teacher may be having a hard time adjusting to full days after always teaching 1/2 day classes.

 

[halestrm]

I agree that the every other day thing is crazy but there isn't anything you can do about that.

It has only been 13 days. My daughter hated first grade for the first 2-3 weeks, now she can't wait.

Relax, a move as major as yours is very traumatic for everyone, including you and your DD. Breathe and let is all go for a few weeks. If you don't see improvement, then reassess.

 

[Wishing on a star]

Okay, many here on the DIS know that I have experienced problems with teachers attitudes and shortcomings. I am usually very outspoken on these types of issues. Here, I will try to remain calm and objective and give you my perceptions.

1. I do agree that you have some valid complaints... However, most of them really have little to do with any real wrong-doing on the part of the teacher. Could she do a MUCH better job???? I would say a HUGE yes! But, as a parent, can you expect to have any input at all... NO, probably not without generating a huge negative reaction from the school.

2. It sounds like this is a VERY complex situation that goes ALL the way up the ladder from the teacher to the school board. The main underlying problems that are making K such a nightmare for your DD are rooted in things like the strange and unstructured schedule. IMHO kids NEED a huge amount of repetition and structure. ESPECIALLY kids like your DD! (My son has some similarities here.... so I really sympathise with you in a BIG way!!!!

The schedule is a HUGE problem that the teacher has no control over...

The fact that the teacher has 23 energetic (possibly unruly) K children with NO AIDE is another biggie!

The previous poster mentioned your story of the Library... and I agree with YOU (the OP) about this. Library is indeed GREAT!!!! That is not the complaint. It appears that the way the Library situation is handled, it quickly turns in to a controlled chaos????? (again, not completely within the teachers control.)

There are just too many negative factors that are not within this teachers control.

It sounds like part of what you describe as this teachers 'teaching style' could also be her efforts to just get thru her day on the job, given the questionable parameters she has been handed by the school district???? (She does seem to have quite a few complaints.....)

Also, even if this teacher does indeed have a very uncontrolled and unstructured teaching style. It really is beyond your control to make a change.

My son had a teacher last year who had a more 'unstructured' teaching style... It was a PROBLEM... But, since she actually really did nothing 'wrong', and personality wise, I did like her, and I wanted to try to maintain a courteous and cordial relationship thru a VERY difficult time for my son... I knew that I could not really say anything at all.

You are really in an interesting situation... You are familiar with 'teaching'... You feel like you should be given some credibility and some respect.... Well, in this situation, you are just one of 'those parents'...
This teacher "Has 22 years of 'experience' THANK YOU VERY MUCH...." Your input on how this is affecting your DD is probably not welcomed.

There really is nothing that you can do to demand that the school improve the situation with the Kindergarteners, or with this teacher. Not unless you feel that there is actual 'wrongdoing'. (ex: the unstructured environment is neglectful and is allowing unruliness that could cause harm to your DD.)

So, from one of "THOSE PARENTS" (Welcome to the club!!!!!)
HUGS!!!!!

As for myself, if I felt like this situation was detrimental to my childs well being, then I would definately explore every other option!!!

PS: and this is a HUGE one... Your family has had MAJOR change... So, please realize that this IS affecting your DD in some ways!!! All of it may not be to blame on the school situation!!!

 

[mickeyboat]

The previous poster mentioned your story of the Library... and I agree with YOU (the OP) about this. Library is indeed GREAT!!!! That is not the complaint. It appears that the way the Library situation is handled, it quickly turns in to a controlled chaos????? (again, not completely within the teachers control.)

and last week when I volunteered, it was library day which takes up another 30-45 minutes. The librarian reads them astory then they willy-nilly check out books (not necessarily attheir reading level)...

Actually, the OP's discussion about library led me to believe she felt it was not necessary and that it took up valuable instruction time. I was trying to explain to her that it does have solid instructional value. The chaos she described came after the children returned to the classroom - which I agree is totally inappropriate, and completely under the teacher's control.

Denae

 

[Wishing on a star]

No biggie about the Library thing!!!!

It was the fact that the OP described the Library as 'willy-nilly'.... I have seen the situation, like at 'Book Fair' at my DS library...

I do think that Kindergarteners might benefit from a more 'controlled' library experience. Perhaps their own little section with age appropriate books, the Librarian and teacher/helper to help them select a nice book, Maybe books that correlate with the story-time theme set out on display. etc...

Basicly, it doesn't take much for a situation to become 'overwhelming' for a new Kindergartener.

It would help to encourage these kids to enjoy 'Library' and 'Books' if it is introduced in a positive and enjoyable way!

 

[mickeyboat]

No biggie about the Library thing!!!!

It was the fact that the OP described the Library as 'willy-nilly'.... I have seen the situation, like at 'Book Fair' at my DS library...

I do think that Kindergarteners might benefit from a more 'controlled' library experience. Perhaps their own little section with age appropriate books, the Librarian and teacher/helper to help them select a nice book, Maybe books that correlate with the story-time them set out on display. etc...

Agreed! That's the way it's run at DD's school. They have limited sections from which to choose. But if I see another fire fighting book come home from school with Emily, I might throw up. I have never seen a child, especially a girl, so fascinated with fire-fighting. The librarian is also our neighbor, so I think my kids get a little special attention in the library.

And you made a great point about the teacher having little control over much of the situation the OP describes. What is the OP going to do, go in and demand that the entire structure/curriculum be changed to suit her child?

Such a tough situation, especially if she really feels it is damaging her child's educational experience.

Denae

 

[disykat]

I agree that it sounds like the teacher isn't exactly great and that there is a lot of wasted time. As a teacher, it's makes me want to jump in and suggest ways to incorporate more learning into that time. As a substitute teacher, I have seen classes like this where I'm hard pressed to figure out when the teacher teaches. However, if the hour of indoor "freeplay" looks like she's setting up to gradually turn them to learning centers, and the slow transition times start speeding up as the year progresses, I wouldn't be too concerned. It takes a long time in K to set up your routine.

My sons both had a K teacher who wasn't the best in the world. Early on I had to let go of the "it'd be so much better if..." feelings and try to evaluate based on certain criteria. My criteria are "does the teacher seem to care about the kids", "are they learning the basic curriculum", and "is my child happy?" Fortunately for me, the answer was yes and I was able to let go of worrying about how the teacher was handling her curriculum.

I'd focus less on how the class should be run and talk with the teacher about how you can work together to help your dd be happier about school.

 

[Tinkbell]

Honestly, I don't think the teacher can win with you. It would probably be best if you requested your daughter be put in a different class. The teacher is never going to change her teaching style overnight. Your suggestions are probably making her uncomfortable. Maybe she feels like when you are volunteering, you are really just there to critique her.

 

[mudnuri]

2) I don't like their schedule. (Not the teacher's fault totallY). They every other day... so someweeks they go MWF, then T/TH, then back to MWF. And if there is a holiday, it gets even more confused. As forthe daily schedule. School starts at 9:15 w/about a 5 minute loudspeaker thing (normal), and then the kids go to their "specials" at 10:05 (20 mins of Gym/20 Mins of either art or music afterthat). This givesthe teacher from roughly 40/45 minutes with the kids to teach them something in the a.m.

It's not the teachers fault at all. She does not set the schedule for the day, and I'm sure she doesnt like it as much as you...

They eat lunch at 10:50 and have recess after that. I believe they wind up back in the classroom somewhere around 11:30/11:45. If 11:30, that gives her until the end of the day (3:37) to teach... which is a good 4 hours. But during that four hours, she gives them another hour of free play, 30 minutes for snack and bathroom break,

It's not a "good 4 hours"...you have to take into consideration travel time, set up, clean up, change up. ESPECIALLY with kindergartners...it's not a quick change even in my DD9's 4th grade classroom- 5-7 minutes change from one subject to another is not uncommon.

and last week when I volunteered, it was library day which takes up another 30-45 minutes. The librarian reads them astory then they willy-nilly check out books (not necessarily attheir reading level)...

This is the same as it was 25 years ago when I was in kindergarten, and the same it is now with my DD8 and DD9 (3rd & 4th graders)...The purpose of library books- is not to be at their reading level so to speak- its to engage reading at home...My DD8 brought home a huge chapter book in 1st grade...it went back the next week, but point was, it's not at her grade level. I urged my kids to pick from books with a topic they enjoy, we have enough "reading" books at home...get some book on bugs if thats the thing that interest them at that point and time etc.. and we'll explore them together

[qoute]and then she had me bring the kids back to the classroom to sit in circle, where she handed out papers to go home and the kids would step all over each other getting to her, then going into the hallway to get their coats and backpacks. [/quote]

sounds like the kindergarten class DD's were in.

3) She is still figuring out where all her kids are academically. They've been in school (b/c of the everyother day thing) 13 days, but that's 15% of the school year... and she still doesn't know my kid can read!!! I even told her that two weeks ago!

Wow, I'm going to guess you've never taught in a kindergarten room with 23 kids, probably some of them border line IEP material? My DD's school started reading block and math blocks the 5th full week of school. Thats WAY more than 13 days to get everyone tested to see where they are academically, but it was plenty quick enough for me.

5) They don't get any homework to make the every other day thing flow very well, and the work I have seen come from her is very unfocused and insubstantial.

trust me, they don't NEED homework in kindergarten

I cant even quote any more...it really seems to me that your never going to be happy with not only this teacher but with the school district. I'm going out on a limb here, but I'm going to guess its the same in the entire district....if 1 school has EOD kindergarten they all do...

As for specials- these are the BIGGEST part of kindergartners day to day life at that age. They are not only learning the academic part of it- but they are learning how to learn from different teachers with different styles, and different mediums....it's all part of school.

Now I've had issues with DD's art class, and actually pulled her from the class, but it was an issue with the ART TEACHER not the school district where I think your problem lies

Brandy

 

[RadioNate]

People have really addressed almost all my thoughts.

My advice, it has been 13 days, this is new to you and your DD. You just need to step back and relax or this is going to be a very difficult for all of you.

How do you feel about your move? We move a lot so I've had some experience there. It sounds to me like you'd rather be in New England and feel like the northeastern way of doing things is the best way. I've learned in all my moves that talking about how much better 'home' was is a sure fire way to alienate and anger people. Even something as simple as 'at our old school....' will automatically put them on the defensive.

My mom taught for 34 years, my father, FIL and MIL all also have been teachers and there is nothing that gets under their skin more than people who feel they know more about running a classroom because their cousin/brother/uncle/friend was a teacher. If you choose to approach the teacher I wouldn't mention that.

Unfortunately you've already crossed the line with this teacher by giving her suggestions and telling her how you'd like to see the classroom run. This woman has 22 year of experience, I tend to think she's learned a few things along the way.

Step back, relax. Work with your DD on her issues. Partner with the teacher about what she can do to help your DD feel less anexiety but leave it at that.

We all get frustrated with our child's schools and classrooms.

Frankly you seem to have very high expectations and seen hard to please. I don't think any teacher will really make you happy and for this poor teacher there is no redemption. It's a shame you feel this way after only 13 days of school. I'd seriously consider homeschooling, at least for this year. In most states kindergarten isn't even a requirement.

 

[golfgal]

In Minnesota they have statewide open enrollment meaning you can apply to send your child to any school in the state, if they have openings, your child can attend, although you will probably have to provide transportation. Is there another kindergarten class your child could transfer into to see if things would be better? If not, I would look into open enrollment (these usually have to be done by January for the next year but it doesn't hurt to call since you just moved to the state).

If you don't mind, what district are you in? Maybe we could help you pick another district or even school in that district that might be a better choice?

 

[Sleepy]

Frankly you seem to have very high expectations and seen hard to please. I don't think any teacher will really make you happy and for this poor teacher there is no redemption. It's a shame you feel this way after only 13 days of school.

I have to agree. This is kindergarten....not college.

 

[Divamomto3]

Sleepy said what I was going to...it's Kindergarten. The teacher doesn't know your daughter can read because they don't teach "reading" in kindergarten. You learn to read in first grade unless you're extremely gifted or have parents who obsess about that kind of thing. There are 23 kids in the class. If only one reads, they aren't going to change the whole philosophy of the class for her.

Of course, you have to stand up for your children when it comes to school. However, as the sister of a teacher at my kids' elementary school, and as a parent of 3 children...the youngest who is in kindergarten this year....I can almost assure you that you are going to label yourself as Mrs. So&So who is a PITA and thinks her kid is a genius.

A large portion of the kindergartens in my state (Connecticut) are still half day. I think it's unreasonable to think that a 5 year old can spend the entire length of a 7 hour school day learning. I think 5 year olds are still learning how to line up straight and not bonk each other on the head with blocks.

 

[Daxx]

Kdg. teacher here.

Yikes! I am floored that Kdg. is every other day in your area. I am scooping my chin off of the floor!!! That is unheard of here! I am just shocked that it's every other day! I think of all that I do in a day and even just missing Mon. for the Columbus Day holiday makes me have to double up on things this week just to keep on schedule! Holy cats! I would never complete my curriculum in that short amount of time.

I will say that I understand why the OP is concerned about no homework. It sounds as if there's no reinforcement of what the child is learning to carry over into the day off of school. I can honestly say that kids need reinforcement at home. In doesn't necessarily have to be homework ... but there should be some type of reinforcement whether it be a game (rhyming), counting something (ie: how many forks are in the silverware drawer?), etc. I send home lots of ideas for parents on how to continue the lessons learned in fun ways that aren't boring.

OP stated her child's education is a priority and that's why she's looking for more than what she's getting (homework wise) b/c, obviously, she feels that her child isn't getting "enough". What I tell my parents to do is review what is done in class and carry those lessons out further. Check the bottom of your child's workbook pages as there are often tips on how to extend what they've learned on the worksheets. For example if they're learning sorting by shape, color, size, kind. then have her sort items at home ... socks (by color, size), silverware (kind), etc. Just take what she's learned and extend it further. Another example, if you're reading, discuss what the author does, what the illustrator does, what the cover is, what the title page is, different punctuation (period, question mark, exclamation point), etc. In our school, homework in Kdg. is expected. While it's not a heck of a lot - a worksheet per day (usually 4 math problems or something relating to Reading/LA/Phonics), I do alternate between Math and Reading/LA/Phonics. It is what is expected of me by my school.

As for library. Yep, sounds like my school's library. Librarian reads them a story and then they pick out a book. Fortunately, the librarian has a special "section" that they are to choose from w/books that meet their needs. She is adamant that the children pick out books in that section. However, checking out books is not an orderly thing.

The testing. 13 days into the school year is just waaay to soon to find out where everyone is. Those kids aren't even used to a classroom setting yet! They're learning what is expected of them. They need time! If I looked at each kid on the first day's work and made judgement calls, I'd be way off base b/c they were not accustomed to me, the classroom setting, the new changes, etc. You are just starting w/them and finding out their needs, reading through IEP's (if they've been fortunate enough to have them - my state won't test in Pre-K, unless it's done privately and don't like testing in Kdg., either), etc. I just figured out who needs to be in Math 1 and Math 2 ... and am working on phonics/LA assessments. When those kids come in the first weeks of school, that time is used for adjustments, getting the ball rolling, getting them used to being in school for a full day, working things out, etc. B/c, let's face it, every year, your class is different and you never know what you're going to get.

OP - you sound very unhappy w/this school and the teacher. If I were in your shoes, I would be looking for another school.

ETA - one teacher w/23 students and no aide ... that is a handful, esp. at the Kdg. level. I know, I've been there.

As far as kids being unruly. Well, it's the 13th day of school ... it takes time to "whip 'em into shape". Rome wasn't built in a day you know! And, as far as lining them up ... w/23, by the time you get them to line up (after you've explained 93 times what lining up means), you're bound to get some who still don't listen and you've got to get them back in order. We spent a good chunk of time, one day, learning how to line up and walk in a nice line, quietly. Waste of time? Maybe to you ... but now they know how to do it and know what is expected. Can you believe I have to teach kids how to walk down stairs properly? Not the "baby" way of stepping - where you put one foot on the stair and then bring the other one and put it down on the same step right next to the other foot. They have to know how to walk down stairs using alternating feet like adults do. Under skills, I have to record that they have achieved this skill. I have spent last week and will spend this week teaching them how to walk down stairs properly. Why is this not taught at home? To me, it is a waste of my time teaching Kindergarten kids how to alternate feet going down stairs. But, b/c it's part of their report card, I have to be sure they know how to do it.

And, I'm going to guess the reason why the teacher is having a difficult time getting their attention is b/c many kids have been babysat by the tv at home, w/constant information being thrown at them and the picture changing every 2 seconds with pretty colors and cartoons and whatnot that they don't know how to handle sitting there and listening to something that doesn't change every 2 seconds. Not all kids go to pre-K and not all are even prepared for Kdg. I can tell you that I have 2 kdg. kids who should prob. be in a pre-K program b/c they are so "behind" in even basic knowledge (colors, shapes, etc). I have some students who cannot even sit through a learning video w/o getting antsy b/c they're used to commercials to get up and play or roam around their house. I had one kid ask me when the commercial was coming on so he could get up and do something else. We are expected to hold their attention span when (a) it's not long to begin with and (b) they're used to dancing ponies and maps that talk and not real people communicating with them. Sorry that I'm not as entertaining as Dora or as flashy as a Rainbow Brite commercial.

 

[Daxx]

they don't teach "reading" in kindergarten. You learn to read in first grade unless you're extremely gifted or have parents who obsess about that kind of thing.

Not true! DS was reading before he left Kdg. (4 yrs ago). My curriculum mandates that my students sound out and blend words to read before they leave Kdg. While they're not reading War and Peace, they are expected to read! My kdg. students are able to read by sounding out and blending those sounds to make words and they're capable of recognizing sight words (sight words are words they wouldn't be able to sound out: like, the, shoe, then, this, that, thing) by the end of the school year. They do not go into 1st grade if they cannot sound out and blend those sounds to make words. They have 100 words that they have to be able to read by the end of the school year. If they went into 1st grade w/o knowing how to sound out words, they'd be in a world of hurt b/c they start reading right off the bat in 1st grade and have spelling tests. W/o knowing how to sound out words, it would make those spelling tests far more difficult.