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Home : 2003 : September : 30

advice
By gateacher

I know what you are going through. I quickly learned that I should shut my door and just teach. Be careful about what you post in the hallways for student work. They can take that and make it a contest of sorts when they
think you are trying to outdo them. Do you get to do lesson plans collaboratively or do you have grade level meetings. I would compliment the veteran teachers from time to time and say things like, I really like the way you did such in such on nouns... blah blah blah. I also would ask their advice with students that you have that are their previous students. I would ask their advice from

time to time on things and make them feel like you are seeking them out for answers to tough things. They usually like to feel like their expertise is valued. Eat with them at lunch only if their negativity wont get you down. I usually eat with the teachers for 15 minutes to get the big gossip, find out when the Queen is observing, etc.. then I go to make copies, use the bathroom and other vital things the other 15. Dont force yourself to stay the whole time if they are very negative. Remember that misery loves company and many of them may have forgotten what it was like to be enthused about the profession. Dont brag or boast and dont give them advice unless they ask you for it. Pretend to do things the way they do them for awhile and then as they get to know you then the sharing can begin.