So sorry to hear that... By JobHunter

And - let's put it this way - I'm trying really hard to be positive about the cart experience. The whole messy project business is frustrating me too. I did order 30 letter sized plastic stacking trays that sit on my cart. For now, I'm keeping all "messy" painting and gluing projects to letter-sized and under. When working from a cart, there's not much more you can do!

I try to think of the positive things about the job. We get to be the teacher all the students like because our lessons are fun! We also don't have to give the ITBS and other standardized tests!!!

Grading at my school is on a 4 point scale:
1- beginning ability
2- developing ability
3- secure ability
4- exemplary

I have a real ethical dilemma with grading students on artistic ability (remember, I'm teaching K-8) and I was upfront about this in my interview. I've heard from the powers that be that "4"s shouldn't be awarded too often. But I'm grading on whether or not the students participated, followed directions, and attempted the new techniques. Consequently, I believe students earn a lot of "4"s. Do you think I'm "right" in feeling this way? Or should I be grading more on artistic merit/talent? I'm of the opinion that art should be a "safe" place to explore and I think too harsh of a grading system would destroy that... I'd really appreciate your professional opinion.

To be perfectly honest, I'm thinking about returning to professional design work next year... don't know yet!!!