By Cheryl Mattox Berry
I wish I had a dollar for every time a student has said, “My teacher hates me.” If so, I’d be writing this blog from my private island in the South Pacific. My response when I hear that question is, “What makes you think that of all the things your teacher has to do at school and home that she has time to hate on you?” That question goes right over the student’s head.
If you feel your teacher is treating you differently, step back and analyze your behavior. What are you doing that gets on her last nerve? You may not even be aware that you’re doing something that annoys her.
Do you come to class late? Teachers have a short period of time to cover a lot of material. Students constantly opening the door and showing her admit slips after the bell rings interrupts her lesson plan.
Do you raise your hand and wait to be acknowledged or blurt out the answer? Just because you raised your hand doesn’t mean the teacher will automatically call on you. There are up to thirty students in a class, and the teacher wants to hear from someone other than you sometimes. Some students are shy and need a little prodding to participate in class discussion. So, the teacher may ask students who don’t have their hands up to answer a question. If that happens, don’t take it personally. It’s not about you.
Do you laugh when other students are acting a fool? The class clown loves an audience. The more students laugh, the more outrageous the disruptive behavior. If you laugh, you are as guilty as the offending student. If the teacher has to discipline a student, you are cheated out of precious learning time.
Do you turn in your homework and big projects on time? You know the deadline is approaching, so plan accordingly. Remember, your teacher is on a schedule, too. She may have to grade more than 100 papers. Stragglers are not appreciated, so get yours in on time.
Do you obey all the rules? I know you want to express yourself, but don’t try it if your school has a dress code. Wear your favorite outfits on the weekends. Checking the time on your cellphone could be misconstrued as using the cellphone, and you could lose it.
Do you have an attitude? Some students talk back, mutter nasty things under their breath or cuss out loud. None of these things will endear you to the teacher. Learn how to hold your tongue in the classroom.
Do you whine? Nobody likes a whiner or complainer. Don’t take up your teacher’s time with silliness. If you have a problem, of course, she is willing to offer advice, but don’t bend her ear with stupid stuff. Save that for your BFFs.
Do you apologize when you have done something wrong in class? Know when to be humble. Teachers don’t expect you to be perfect, but when you are wrong admit it. Ask the teacher how you should have handled a situation.
Teachers are really your second set of parents. They often spend more time with you during the week than your biological parents. Teachers not only impart knowledge but also are instrumental in your growth and development. They are an important ally on your educational journey. Give them the respect they deserve. And, no, your teacher doesn’t hate you. She just wants you to do what you’re supposed to do without a lot of drama.