Try to Teach Him

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Home : 2004 : June : 1

Try to Teach Him
By Amy Lee

My teaching assistant had $26.00 stolen from her wallet a few weeks ago. We know who did it but can't prove it and the student will never admit to being a thief. This student has already stolen checks and shoplifted. At
14 years of age he is already been on probation twice. This particular student steals because he gets a "high" from it not to hurt anyone or needing the money. Your student may need counseling because this may already be a pattern or will become a pattern of behavior. My assistant let the student know her trust had been violated and she was angry about the situation. The most effective

consequence for the student has been attending class and having to face my assistant and I. Also the student's actions will probably affect him getting a summer job through an local grant. He is really interested in the job and can't wait to see if he is hire. I haven't told him but I am sure his criminal record will be one reason he is denied employment. So if you can don't back down and have the child attend your class. You must be a great teacher to admit you may be bias. The previous advice about asking your union what to do is good advice. Have you thought about placing criminal charges against the student??? Good luck

P.S. In most schools the student would be placed on poor school standing meaning the child can't participate in fundraising, attending school functions such as field trips, etc. Also this student should have a hearing with your disciplinary committee in your district and they could have expelled him for the remainder of the school year and placed him in an alternative school.