Rules

I was having trouble deciding what to blog about today. It was a good day, albeit a little on the tough side...

I had a parent write me a note yesterday on her daughter's behavior contract saying that she didn't understand why I needed so many rules and why this couldn't be a more fun class. So, I called her. That's right. I followed up with this note and called the mother. Ensuing was a calm explanation that success is fun, and in order for there to be success, there has to be rules, with the understanding that my expectations are probably higher than they're used to. All I ask is that they come to class on time, are respectful, and do their job. The parent wasn't exactly dumfounded, but she didn't argue too much with me after that. I think that's part of the problem with teenagers (now, remember, I'm not a parent-I'm just going off of what I observe). People are afraid to discipline their kids. They are afraid of their kid hating them or not being the "cool" parent. You know what kids? I'm not here to be your friend. If you get to know me outside of the classroom, that's great. I'm here to make sure that you become successful. Rules aren't instilled to make your lives miserable; they're there to keep order and make sure the job gets done. Isn't that just common sense? Apparently not! As one of my greatest teachers once said: Never assume anything. Assume that children know two things: their names and how to pee. Never assume they know anything else. I guess that can probably be extended to adults, too!