I recently moved to a new town due to my husband being hired at a larger firm. I applied to several schools in the area, finally getting an interview with one close to my new house.

I was hired on the spot. They didn't care if I would be teaching a grade and subject that I am not familiar with. I taught Science for 8 years in my old school.

I have been here a little over a month, and to this day, no one has even introduced themselves. They walk by, maybe make a little eye contact and occasionally mutter hello.

I have not been told about the dis. policy of the school, or anything else. I have been "winging it".

The other day I went to make copies and was literally yelled at because, and I quote "Only student aides are allowed to use machines."

I sent three boys out for using the F word several times in a class, they were sent back. The asst. prin. came in and said "I am allowing them come back to class, and you CAN NOT write them up until you have completed steps 1-4."

When I asked what the steps were, he said he didn't have time for it now. Now the students feel they can do whatever they want.

I am at the end of my rope with the people in this school. When I ask for help, everyone has this "It's not my job" attitude.
It's making my day so miserable.
What should I do?

[mossgirl9]

Maybe you can mae an appointment with the Principal and ask any questions you have at that time. Share your concerns and ask for help. I think they will be willing to help if you ask. Ask for him to assign a mentor for you for a little while until you feel confident and on your feet. Did they give you any school information like a handbook or policies that you could read in the meantime?

[SuzyM]

I feel for you. Teaching is a tough job and often with little thanks from the parents. Now to take it from the staff. Is there a grade chair or team leader? I am astounded that teachers (co-workers) can be so rude. Is there a school handbook for teachers? We are given one at the beginning of the school year. It has most of the discipline policies and rules to follow. I agree to try to make an appointment with the principal about the procedures. Sorry this is happening. Imagine how hard it must be for the first year teacher.

[karie]

That's awful. How terrible to have to work in that environment. There are a few people in my building that are unfriendly, including one of the secretaries, but most are great to work with.

I wish I had some advice, but it sounds like you are trying. People know you are new, there's no excuse for not introducing themselves to you and making the transition a little easier. Hang in there!

Hope you have a great Thanksgiving! HUGS!

[jen1114]

Steps 1-4, that sounds like the Make your Day discipline program. I used it for 4 years. If you need help with it, pm me and I'll explain. I really liked using it.

[klim]

It sounds as if the people you work with are not being very kind or welcoming. I am also in a new school and find people to not be very welcoming to the newbies. I always remind myself of how awful it feels to not be welcomed and included and to never treat others like this. I always go out of my way to welcome new people, because it feels like #$% to be new and not have any support. I feel for you. If you were in my school, we could do lunch Hang in there!!