Disciplinary Action/Disciplinary Office/First Week/Sex-Ed/Changes
“Correct me if I’m wrong, but I get the feeling you don’t really enjoy teaching the class,” you said in a understanding tone.
Ms. Carmichael just smiled at you and nodded, “but I can’t refuse,” she quickly added, “we’re strapped for cash as it is, even with me volunteering to manage the cheerleader squad, the after school study club and helping the janitor after classes,” she commented sadly. You didn’t know she had so much on her shoulders, and wondered how big her family was, since the school actually had decent salaries.
“You’re the only breadwinner at home?” you asked, regretting it almost at once, that was not something you should be asking.
“What? No!” she quickly said, apparently embarrassed by the question, “I mean… right now… technically I am…” she made a pause, her body language clearly stating she wasn’t comfortable with the topic, “but Brandon hasn’t been able to secure a good position… it’s only temporary, and he needs the extra money to apply for a better job.” she explained, although it seemed more to herself than to you. Still, if she’s been teaching for at least four years, her husband’s temporary unemployment seemed rather permanent.
“Sorry, it wasn’t my intention to pry into your personal life,” you quickly said, and that actually seemed to relax her, “what I wanted was to propose to you some changes in this year’s Sex-Ed class, if you’re willing?”
“What kind of changes?” she asked, doubt in her voice.
“Well, have you read the guidelines for the Disciplinary Office?” you asked, suddenly curious about how disseminated that document actually was.
“I… took a look when it was presented, yes,” she said, playing with her hands in a nervous action, “but I didn’t really pay… attention to the details… sorry.”
“Well, there is a section for students to be used as show-and-tell aides, and I’m thinking the Sex-Ed class is the obvious choice to apply that in, don’t you think?”
“Having naked students in class?” she almost shouted, “the parents would kill me!” she added, but you noticed her rejection was focused on her personal safety, and not the actual presence of the naked students.
“I doubt there will problems with the parents this year,” you tried to assure her, “from what I’ve gathered, the headmaster did a lot of work before I was hired to ensure parents were on board with the changes,” you looked her right in the eyes and continued, “and I have nothing against you, Ms. Carmichael, but I do think the current Sex-Ed curriculum is lacking, and our students deserve better.”
It was like the teacher deflated in front of you, “It’s just… I’m not… I’ve tried my best!”
“I know,” you said, trying to comfort her, she suddenly seemed ready to cry, “I understand you are under a lot of pressure, that’s why I’m offering my help during the Sex-Ed classes,” you finished, taking her hand in yours.
“But… it’s my responsibility… I can’t burden you with—”
“It’s also my responsibility, since students under my care will be present,” you assured her.
“I… I would love to… but the headmaster might not like it. He designed the curriculum, I can’t change it without his approval,” she said, but she no longer seemed depressed, in fact the prospect of having some help had made her sit up straight, like a weight was lifted from her shoulders.
“If it makes you feel better, I’ll have a chat with the headmaster. But I’m sure he won’t have an issue with it,” you assured her. At least you hoped it wouldn’t be an issue, you really weren’t too sure of the headmaster’s opinion on the subject.
“Yes, if the headmaster gives his blessing, I have no issue giving control of the class to you, Mr. Gardner,” she said, a small smile on her lips.
“Great!” you announced, “so when does the class start?” you asked.
“Well, I usually give the first class about anatomy in the third week of classes,” she answered, clearly not looking forward to it.
“Excellent, please give Ms. Varano the exact date, I’ll come over to help you that day,” you said, getting up and offering your hand to her. Ms. Carmichael looked much happier now.
“You have no idea how much that means,” she said, her smile returning, “just be sure to get the headmaster’s approval, I wouldn’t dare to do something behind his back,” she reminded you.
“Don’t worry, I’m sure this year you will enjoy teaching that class,” you finished, saying goodbye and leaving her classroom.
On your way back you met the students that were returning to classes. Again most of them were walking, although you weren’t sure if it was because fear of punishment, or just unwillingness to end recess. Looking at the boys and girls around you, you started making plans as to who to bring with you for demonstration purposes to the Sex-Ed class. You needed to plan that ahead of time.