Two days as a TIC . . . April 13, 2007
It is on days like today that I second-guess my decision to go into administration. I was teacher-in-charge for the past two days, and wouldn't you know it -- crisis.
First, a well-known parent/grandparent/uncle passed away. I found out Thursday morning and immediately we had to call school counsellors to come and assist us in the grieving process. It came as a shock to all, including teachers, support workers, parents who have known him for a long time and worked with him. He had been an active member of our school community before he became sick. That was crisis #1.
Then crisis #2: a student began an altercation in gym class. It resulted in a fight that the teacher had to break up. This was rather easy. Home suspension.
Crisis #3: Attempted abduction in another area of our small city. Received the memo 10 minutes before the end of the day bell. Made a quick judgement call to announce students to be extra-cautious on the walk home. Some parents upset because I didn't give details. (details sent home next school day in a newsletter)
Crisis #4: This one still bothers me because I know the end isn't in sight. This student is too volatile. I can't go into details. All I can say is it involved threats and swearing at a teacher. In-school suspension. Restitution. Two-day home suspension. Parent meeting.
I was so emotionally exhausted by Friday afternoon, I still felt exhausted by Sunday! I needed another weekend.
I know I have so much to learn about being a principal. Some staff members felt bad for me because I had a tough two days, but how else am I going to learn?