As a teacher, this is always the worst time of the year. Students are misbehaving in anticipation of the break. I have to find a way to buy Christmas gifts for two sets of families out of a teacher’s salary. But the most annoying part of this time of year is being accosted by students telling me what THEY want for Christmas, yet they never think to ask me what I want. Well, this year is going to be different. Below is a list of wants I am sending home to families.
Mr. Pillow’s Christmas list:
More PTO
I’ve given up on the idea that I am going to get paid more. But in lieu of that, I feel like I should at least ask for more time off. 5 days was enough when I was younger. But as I get older, life just happens more often. Between house stuff and kid stuff (in the future), I need some more flex time.
Shorter School Day
When I leave during my prep, I see students from other schools getting off the bus to go home, and I still have two hours left of work. It just feels wrong…to me. (But for the record, shorter days are better for students too.)
More School Support Staff
Bigger fancy schools have lots of counselors and social workers to help students with needs outside of school. I’ve even seen some with a food bank. I know my school can’t afford such things, but it would be nice.
Pencils
Teachers know.
Interesting Professional Development
I’m not one of those teachers that complain about every PD, but I have been teaching for almost ten years. I’ve pretty much seen it all. If I have to sit through it every year, at least give me some variety and switch it up, so I get more out of it.
Working Technology
It doesn’t have to be fancy. I just want something functional. Computers that don’t take thirty minutes to load. Internet faster than 56k. Printers that, well, print.
I don’t think my list is too much to ask. Hopefully, the district, the government, or even Santa can find it in their hearts to help a less fortunate teacher.