In preparation for student teaching, I had heard that having lunch in the faculty room can lead to some "issues" when you are a new teacher. Sometimes a group lunch can bring negative conversation where complaints are scattered through the room like confetti and all teachers try to outdo each other with their horror stories.
Allow me to be the first to say that I am not encountering that scenario with my lunch buddies! I am lucky to have "A" lunch during third block with an amazing group of teachers. There are eight of us "regulars" that come to eat lunch together in the faculty lunch room. This includes myself, the three ag teachers, a photography/cinema teacher, two power and structure technology and engineering teachers, and one wood shop teacher. Some days are more lively than others but it is common to hear jokes and laughter every day. We swap stories, talk about what is happening around the county/community, and jest about what time lunch is over. It is from our time at lunch where I have learned a lot about the school district demographics and fun things to do while I am here in Lancaster County.
My takeaway from this week is to explore what you've been given. If I would have entered the lunchroom with a predetermined mindset that all conversation should be avoided for a fear of negativity then I would be missing out on some great stories from great teachers. My advice would be to scope it out! Don't miss out on a great connection or friendship because of one example that you heard. Have a great week!
Well stated!
ReplyDeleteIt is what you make it and you always have the power to change the environment by not returning or choosing in continuing
Angie, having that mental break with positive fellow educators is a fun part of any teacher's day! The teacher's room can be a place of positivity, creativity, and knowledge, and it's great that you're able to experience. Remember, any meal is a reflection of what you bring to the table, so keep it positive!
ReplyDeleteA well said and very true story on predetermined mindset experiences. A few minutes a day with your teaching peers in a friendship setting and listening to family stories gives a new perspective to your interactions as a professional staff. The same can be said about how Ag-Ed teacher get to know our students and their families over the years giving us all better connections with our students.
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