Hi Tonya, First, let me say that I am so sorry that you have lost Popeye. I am so sorry that you had to let him go and that nothing else can be done. One positive thing is that you know now that you made the right decision in letting him go. Had you not had that test result, and made the decision to let him go, you would have always wondered if it was the right one. What a blessing that you know. I hope his sweet memories help you to grieve for him. And I know that he's watching over you right now (and probably scratching that principal's new Cadillac or clawing up their couch when he/she is asleep. hehe). Popeye loves you and will always be right by your side, even in death.
Second, let me say that I know exactly what it feels like to work for a crappy administrator. I have worked in public education for 12 years now, at four schools, first as a teacher/coach and now as a librarian like Susan. I have had some great administators, and three crappy ones. I work for two of them now. A lot of people don't know how much politics and power do play a part in the public school system. It is a reality and it's sad the power that an administrator has in a teacher's life. I don't know what state you are in, or how your evaluations are done, but is this same administrator going to be giving your evaluation? Or is it your asst. principal? If it is this principal, I would strongly suggest that you join the local region of your teacher's union, like AFT or the like. And document everything that goes on this year with this principal. Everything. Because the reality is that this principal could really be a jerk and could cause you trouble for no other reason than that his or her pants are too tight. I hate to be so fatalistic about this but I've seen it and been through it, and I feel the need to warn you. Hopefully, this principal is just trying to establish him or herself, and is a bit insecure in the new position (maybe they are a first year principal), and you and the other teacher were the guinea pigs. Keep in mind that you are a good teacher and that you went into teaching because you love kids and you love teaching them. And pray for guidance and protection this year. You are a wise woman to lie low. I do the same thing. I stay out of the office unless I have to go in there, and when I do, I'm sweet as pie. Yes, I play the game, even though I hate it. Once, my senior year gov't teacher told me that I would have to learn to play the game in life, and I told her that was crap, and that I would never do it, but she was right. Sometimes you just have to. And I also agree wholeheartedly with the others about calling in sick. Complete honesty is not always the best route to take. It's like dealing with the IRS. The less they know, the better. Again, I am so sorry that you had to let Popeye go. If you need anything or just to vent, you know where to find me. :) Wendy __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com
