Funny, how our thoughts become our reality! I was just reminded of the experience, years back.
I went to pull out this kid for testing; I've tested almost all of the students in my area in preparation for their education program. The minute he sat down, I knew this kid, let's name him Bill, was different. Unlike all the other students who would just sit down and answer the test. Bill, was different.
Different, because unlike most kids, he started asking questions, which were valid by the way, and maybe I was just taken aback because it was not everyday I see students like him.
So after, pacifying his imagination, and strictly telling him what to do, he followed and focused on what he needed to finish with some whining and sighs in between!
I emailed my psychologist friend about the student I was dealing at that moment, Bill. He gave me all the facts and experiences with teachers; and the reasons why he would always end up in an alternative setting, because he'd be expelled from school.
With my experiences in dealing with students with behavior problems, I bluntly wrote.. "You know what he needs? He needs a Filipino teacher! I am sure this Filipino teacher would make him change!.. and you know what? I know one or two Filipino teachers who are really good in dealing with students like him."
I was actually thinking of Filipino friends who are teachers and who just know how to discipline students; and of course the Filipino way of handling and managing behaviors :)
My psychologist friend said, (knowing Filipino teachers himself), "Well, it depends on the Filipino!" and I pushed, "Truly, if someone would just inspire and push him to his limits and mostly be patient with him, I am sure Bill will go places!"
"The trick", he said, "is to like the kid!"; I replied, "true.. the missing link!"
After 4 weeks....
.... I received an email from my head, asking me if I would be willing to teach a student based on the services agreed upon after school. Thinking it would be extra money, I readily said "Sure!".
GUESS, who the student was? Bill.
.... I received an email from my head, asking me if I would be willing to teach a student based on the services agreed upon after school. Thinking it would be extra money, I readily said "Sure!".
GUESS, who the student was? Bill.
.... after 4 weeks with him, he was a changed man!
I know I just have to make it a reality and it happened... he changed me! Lol!