Copying

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Home : 2006 : February : 7

Copying
By SoCalTeach

I think it is sad that someone has to rely on your ideas to make themselves feel as if they did a great job. I've seen both sides of this: When I was an aide at a public elementary school, none of the third grade teachers
shared anything (7 of them!). They all wanted to be autonomous and keep their "great" ideas to themselves. Now I am a 4th grade teacher at a small secular private school, and everyone shares everything! I don't think there is one person who hoardes others' ideas for herself. We share book report ideas, Open House information packets, etc.

I have to admit that I was a little worried

at first, because the other 4th grade teacher has been teaching that grade for 9 years, and had her own system for doing things. Surprisingly, she didn't mind sharing her organization ideas/art projects, etc. And even more surprisingly, she has taken quite a few of my ideas and has used them herself.

It is a form of flattery, but if this teacher insists on taking all of your ideas and doing none herself, I would cut her off, or at least limit the things you share with her. It's sad, but obviously she has taken advantage of your kindness (and your great ideas!).