[amberlu]

I have a really tough 5th grade group this year. It's important to know they are all title one-31 title one kids together. It's frustrating because they think it is "cool" to not turn in assignments, and "cool" to disrespect me as the teacher. I have about an average of 10 who were just told they may not pass. I have given rewards, used several different motivational tools, been mean, been nice....you name it. I try to spend more time with them, and then I also try to be really tough on them. I have tried to get parent support but that hasn't worked so well. I feel I have used every tool in my teacher belt. If I am harder on them they just think I am more mean. I am tired of other teachers telling me my classroom is disrespectful. It seems hopeless and I have never felt like this before in my 10 years of teaching. Any suggestions? PLEASE