sharing

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sharing
By Julianne

I wouldn't sharpen pencils or run fingernails over the chalkboard, but surely you can stay and work quietly during another teacher's class. I teach a half-time contract. My partner and I are often in the classroom during
the time the other person is teaching. We try to be respectful in terms of noise and movement. But we have little choice if we wish to get our planning and other work done. After the first couple of days the kids get used to having us in the room and don't get distracted.
I think the fact that this is a new situation sets you up to make some command decisions. You can let your partner

teacher know that she is welcome to come in early or stay late to set up or clean up while you teach your classes, and that you will be in and out of your room while she is teaching. Instead of asking her if this is ok, just state it as fact and ask her if there is anything she would like you to be especially aware of. I've shared a number of classrooms over the years and most of the time it worked out fine.