There's nothing more dramatic than people who start sentences with "There's nothing more (adjective)." Sorry, I catch myself doing that a lot and realized what a drama queen it makes me look like. What I was going to say before I had said revelation was: There's nothing more disheartening to a teacher than the moment you realize how great a show you put on, how much effort and energy you pour into one kid, how much encouragement you give him, he's still going to fuck it up because he WANTS to fuck it up. He has some idea that there's something better out there than what I have to offer him, something that doesn't involve work. I honestly think that's the problem so many people have with school is that it's... work. It's not easy. And I believe that yes, there are people for whom academic pursuits hold no appeal. I've known those people. But to make this decision at age 14? And moreover, just because you've made that choice, is there any reason to bring the rest of the class down with you? You'd like to believe that you can make every kid believe and save every body that passes through your door... it's like finding out Santa ain't real. I hate to say I'm giving up on this kid, but I feel like that's the only option he's left me. The amount of stress and worry I've given this wannabe gansta cholo is hardly worth the amount of gratitude or effort I'm getting in return. I hate to say this but... fuck that guy.
posted by MAtt D. at 1:56 PM