The New Kid
Michelle on Dec 20 2006 at 2:14 am | Filed under: The Teaching
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Yesterday, I got a new kid in my class. I recognized his mother when she dropped him off. She works for the district as the Director of Cafeteria Services in the building next to mine. After I got her kid “checked in” and dropped off the attendance sheet, I went to her office.
As I opened the door and asked for her, I saw her roll her eyes at the secretary. As in, “Now what other nonsense do I have to put up with as a result of my kid being in this program?”
She stepped outside. I felt awkward at first, but I told her, “I just want you to know. My child was arrested two weeks ago, and was expelled for a year. Had it been a lesser offense, he would have been sent to this same program. You are not the only one.”
I told her that I knew what it felt like to wonder what people were saying behind my back, and how humiliated and angry I had felt going to the high school and seeing Older Son in handcuffs. How we were then railroaded through the system.
She told me her own story. It was pretty much the same as mine. She said, “I am leaving work today. I have chest pains. I am only 34 years old and I have chest pains!”
She expressed dismay that her child was now in a school that was like a “prison”. I did not contradict her, but reassured her that I would watch after him, and that she did not have to worry. We hugged.
I hope that I offered some comfort; that what I have been through lately can help someone else.
ITK code for Singing The Sky:
Moms need moms — and teachers — like you. Your post sprung tears to my eyes. (I’m giving you a hug, too).
All of us moms have struggles and issues with our kids. (some worse than others, and kids pick different times to act out) You were kind, sensitive, and caring. I am not surprised. If I had a child in trouble, I would want you in my corner.
Sounds like you were able to extend that comfort and hope to someone else in distress.
That was really nice of you, Michelle. I don’t think I’d be brave enough to do something like that.
It’s so great that you could reach out and offer comfort to another … so many of us in this situation (me too) at first feel isolated and embarassed … it is such a big help knowing that you’re not alone in that experience.
Much peace, JP