Just Say No... Or just another time...

It is the first week of school and as you all know, that is a crazy time.  The demands on your time and your ability as a teacher are high.  Your county/district wants you to start the curriculum right away, seriously, my county gave my 5 lessons for the first week of school in just math.  They wanted me to start DAY ONE!  Do they take into account teaching procedures, or how long it will take to learn how your room works, or where everything is, or anything?

Our time is precious, and I want you to know that it is okay to say "No, let's do it another time."  You can say NO to the specialist that wants to introduce themselves 5 minutes before dismissal on the first day of school.  It is okay to say "No, we can't meet during our planning time because it is our planning time, another day will have to work."  It is okay to say "No, I will not meet with you during my lunch time because I didn't have a special (i.e. PE, Music, etc) and that is the only time I have to be by myself."  It is okay to say "No, I do not want to come early to school to talk to you about Johnny."

I have learned that no matter what, the work is going to be there, but time with my family is not.  I work very hard when I am at school, but when I come home, I enjoy my time with my family.  I do not bring work home with me (unless it is right before report card time).  Too many a night, I've lugged that bag home just to lug it back the next morning untouched.

Of course, pick your battles and what you will say no to, and I usually say yes more. BUT, when that NO needs to be said, ...