I think you handled it fine

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Home : 2002 : November : 28

I think you handled it fine
By Jami

It's a good policy to have because how can you make a judgement on something that you missed? That wouldn't be fair. When students tattle on each other, and I didn't witness it, the first thing I ask was "Did you tell the
playground teacher (principal, etc)?" If the answer is no, then I say "Ok, well did you tell Johnny to stop, (how you felt about it, etc)?" I listen to their answer, and then state "Ms. X (me!) is not ouside with you, and I didn't see what happened. So, it's important for you to tell (whichever authority figure) when something happens so that they can help you." This does usually

work.
As for the student being angry, don't let it bug you too much. He was probably angry that you didn't take immediate action and he wanted his way. He also may be the type who needs to cool down first, which you did handle well.
Whenever a student is angry like that (I have been told that I'm a "bad teacher" by an angry student), I usually tell them to sit down and put their head down. I also tell them that I will be glad to listen when they have cooled down. Sometimes the students just need to vent. When they're finished venting, I then ask the questions I posted above. hope this helps!