I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

I have been teaching for the last 12 years as a Catholic School teacher and I crossed over to PS and oh, my what a difference. The children were so unruly today. I was a bit overwhelmed by the level of vulgarity yelled in the halls and at each other.

I called my DH at lunch and told him, ' I don't know about this job' I will try and stick it out but OMG such an incredible difference. And don't get me wrong, I am not a prude, I came from a tough CS, but it was nothing like this at all!

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

what school?

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

Wow, I'm shocked to hear there was such a difference. Perhaps it's the district/school you are in, not just that it's public! I'm sorry to hear you had such a rough day. Once you earn the students' respect, I'm sure things will run much more smoothly for you. I wouldn't base your decision on the school on the first day. First days are always chaotic. GL!

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

There is a huge difference in catholic school and public school, even in the great districts.

I did the transformation as a student and I was like the entire first year.

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

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Posted by dgtlsunshine

There is a huge difference in catholic school and public school, even in the great districts.

I did the transformation as a student and I was like the entire first year.

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Me too! I went to Catholic school 1-8 and then Public school 9-12. I could not believe the behavior difference!

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

I had tought kids at CS and even the worst problem there seems like a piece of cake at this school.

The students are just not what I expected. The yell curses accross the classroom and when I approached the dean about it, I was told, that is the culture of teenagers. Well, I know that teenagers like to curse, as I do, but still there is a time and a place.

Today I covered a senior class and it was from h e l l. They didn't even attempt to listen or try to listen to what I was trying to do. I was trying to get them excited about yearbook and senior activities and they could care less.

I am counting the days...............

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

Maybe you just need to yell. Not like a monster, but enough to regain control. Let them know early on that you're the one in charge, not them. Let them know how they act in the halls is not apprpriate or acceptable in your classroom. Period.

Re: I survived my first day as a Public High School teacher

I worked in Catholic schools, but did my internships in public schools. They are very different for sure. Is there another teacher there who seems to have a good handle on classes that you could ask to mentor you until you get adjusted?