Living with Diabetes and Lapband

Right now, things are a bit unmanagable. I have approximately 30 students in each class. The good news, is that on any given day, 1/3 of the Algebra I repeaters are not that. Well, that is not really good news, because it takes forever to take roll, and I'm never sure I have it right.

The non-English speakers are very good attenders.

The good news, is that they are supposed to be relieving my schedule. I am hoping they will take away at least 1 of the repeaters class, but not all, because I'm afraid if they take all, they will take my Infocus machine and my Agilemind account. But if they do, maybe the ESL department will get me one.

I can actually teach the non-repeaters without it, but I'd rather not. I think they need the visuals.

I don't want to lose the non-English speakers though. I am really enjoying teaching them.

Yes, I teach non-English speakers Algebra. My dog training years are paying off. Here's the thing, dogs don't speak English either. To teach a dog a task, you have to break down as small as possible, rewarding every little bit. The non-English speakers are the same way. Something I'd do in one class period with normal Algebra I students, I might take 2-3 days with the non-English speakers and only teach them one thing. We really ought to do that with the normal kids too, but oh, well, no one asked me.

I draw lots of picture and give lots of feedback. The feedback is almost impossible though with 30 students. I really need 15 in each class, to teach these kids right. That means finding another teacher AND another classroom, both of which might be impossible.

I am trying not to think hard about any of that though. Getting though each day can be challenge enough.