The Teacher's Desk: S1: Why do they want to grow up so fast?

 Hey hey! What's up everybody? I know it's been a while but these teenagers been teenagering!! Work has been so hectic ya'll. Get your wine or beverage of choice and meet me at the desk because it is so much we got to unpack. 

This one is for the parents. I have a question. Why do ya'll kids want to grow up so fast? This generation is in such a hurry to be "grown." Their definition of grown is smoking, vaping, skipping class, being sexual, etc. but why? Why are they so intrigued with substances and being seen all the time? I chose to speak about this because something really heartbreaking happened at my school yesterday. A student decided to bring edibles to school and pass them out like he was Oprah! It got so bad that students were sent to the hospital and getting sick. All because they wanted to get high? I really want students to understand that there is so much more to life and adolescence than jeopardizing their bodies and future for an out-of-body experience that does not even last long.  

When I spoke to my students about this, many of them said that they smoke to relieve stress. I don't doubt that they are stressed about school, friends, life, etc. However, Parents, please take time to listen and talk with your kids. Spend more time getting to know them and the kids they hang around. Introduce them to better and safer ways to express themselves whether it be through journaling, sports, hobbies, exercise, whatever they need to keep them on the right track. I would hate to see so many of our youth needing rehab, medicine, mental health programs, etc. all because they decided to use substances at such an early age. Remind them that they are meant for greatness and they cannot give up on themselves so soon. 

That is all I had for you guys today. Stay tuned for next week because this teacher graduates! I am so excited to share this journey with you all!

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                                                                                                                        a Concerned First- Year Teacher 

The Teacher's Desk: S1: Pilot

 Welcome to The Teacher's Desk where we talk about the good, the bad, and the ugly. Perspectives will be shared, laughs will be had, experiences will be spoken of, but most importantly, a new understanding and appreciation will be discovered for all educators and parents alike. Before we get into the most trending student vs. substitute issue, let me tell you a little bit about myself. 

I am Alexia Massengale, a two-time graduate of THEE Fayetteville State University #ProudtoBE. Both of my degrees are in Business Administration focusing on Marketing. So, how did I become a teacher?? We'll get to that...I graduated HS in 2016 from Westover High School #Wolverines. Both of my parents served in the military and I am the youngest of all of my siblings. Lastly, I am a first-year Career & Technical Education (CTE) teacher. I teach Computer skills for my 6th & 7th grade students and I teach Business & Entrepreneurship for my 8th grade students. With my educational background considered, that is how I became a teacher and also, I just needed the money lol. Enough about me, let's talk about why this student & sub fought ya'll.  

Back in my day, I would have never even thought to raise my hand at an adult. My momma's name is Hope and she would've knocked any hope that I had of LIVING out of me once she found out I hit a teacher. I wish I could see both sides of this but I really can't. Students know they cannot have cell phones in class. Most likely, if a teacher takes the cell phone it is only until the end of class. She could have waited. End. Of. Story. What do ya'll think about this situation? How do you think it should have been handled? 

Visit The Teacher's Desk next week for some real teacher tea!

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                                                                                                                                a First-Year Teacher

The Teacher's Desk- Trailer

Teacher, Educator, Social Worker, Principal, Parent, whatever your role may be, you are here for a reason. Maybe you're a teacher and you want these parents to really see how they child be acting in class or you're an administrator and want teachers and parents to understand why you make the decisions that you do, OR (and this is what I am most excited about, lol) maybe you're a parent and you want to understand why teacher's act the way they do (we TIDE!). Whatever the reason, I am so glad you made it to The Teacher's Desk. Now, take a seat and have your supplies ready because you don't want to miss this lesson!

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                                                                                                                             a First-Year Teacher