tried not to react
I had to drive T to and from his new "school" today because the school district hadn't made arrangements yet for his transportation. I thought I'd be doing it awhile (based on what the transportation person said) but I rec'd an e-mail letting me know that it is arranged for tomorrow. Well........... I pick up T today from the on-line school after his first "day" (it's only 3 hours) and it wasn't good. He started in saying how much he hates it. He's angry that he has to do English and reading along with science and math that he didn't pass. He passed English and sees no reason why he has to do "extra" work. The teachers explained it to him yesterday but, apparently, their explanation didn't fly. Anyway, he was in a horrible mood (swearing loudly) and told me he wants to quit and take his GED instead. I called him a quitter. I am NOT happy. I also told him that this is a means to an end and before he knows it - he's done! I KNOW how confining it is for him to sit for 3 hours. I know how he is. He's very social, too, and it is frustrating for him that he can't talk. I wish they could give them a 10 minute break for goodness sake. Three straight hours is long for anyone. I know for any recent classes I had to take to teach, we were given short breaks. I don't know. I just hope he is not serious about quitting and sticks it out. The assistant principal told me yesterday that they have had a 100% success rate sending kids from our school district to this place. Maybe T will continue the trend.
Replies
I hope he will. I can tell you that in college when you take a three hour class you get a 15 break in between so I\'m surprised to hear there is no break. I agree with you there. I hope he sticks it out!
Okay.... what\'s up with having no break.... that bothers me, but homework bothered me too.... I thought thats why a child goes all day to school... so who am I to buck \"the system\".... but still... I don\'t understand no break.
Hmmmm, are you sure that this is the \"whole\" story? Have you had any communication or orientation with the teachers? Three hours is long but not impossible especially when you consider how easy it is for a teen to plunk down in front of a computer for other things (games, chat)....I wonder if he isn\'t reacting to being back in a very structured environment and/or the situation HE has put himself in. Patience, try not to let his mood rattle yours. Take Care!!!
Sounds like he\'s feeling frustrated and is making excuses. You\'ve set the rules, and he has to follow them. They have rules, and he must follow them. That\'s his life right now. He has hurdles, and to be challenged is good!
My son just started at an alternate Public Charter School. He goes for 4 hours/day, and they get one 15 minute break. He says it\'s fine, and noone else has a problem regarding breaks. He does not want to socialize, though. That is what gets him into trouble. So sitting in front of the computer for 4 hours is\'t a problem for him. A primary focus of the school is to get the students working, so they practice interview/socialization skills as well as academics. Make sure you know of all the different school options available for your son. We almost didn\'t find out about this one - you have to dig pretty deep sometimes, they do not promote them to the general public. It is called \"your diploma your way\". Without this opportunity, our son would be a drop out. Thinking of you and your family. Hugs.