Got some flaws?

    We have to own our weaknesses. I have to own that I struggle with several things, and without these, I would be a better teacher: having severe ADHD, taking attendance on time, returning work in a timely fashion, giving clear instructions, changing deadlines, worrying excessively, doubting myself always, having a messy desk and crappy handwriting, misplacing things, losing my train of thought, over-assigning writing, over-responding to writing, taking things too personally, and comparing myself to others. Oh, and technology issues. However, I try to exploit my strengths so that these are not what people think of first when they think of my classroom. 

    And realistically, I am fine in the classroom. I am occasionally funny and frequently odd--aren't we all? I am kind of opinionated but definitely hard working (partly to make up for my shortcomings). I memorize poetry, commit interesting lines of text to memory, and read literary criticism. I created an AP Lang class at our school because I wanted to challenge kids. I am not a gossip. Did I mention that I love teaching writing? I am maybe overly committed to self-promotion. If I have written an article or something goes well in class the administration will know about it. Trust me—do this—let them know.       

   

        Everyone should own that they have some amazing skills, things that set them apart (or will) in the classroom. These should be discovered, tweaked, and exploited. They should also be shared. When something goes well with my students or a lesson soars, I like to corner a colleague and fill them in. I don't think such celebrations are bragging--they're connections. I want to hear their successes in turn. I truly wish there were more genuine give and take concerning achievements with students. Part of why this is rare? People don't want to seem arrogant (it doesn't bother me), but sometimes I think teachers feel threatened by each other and then don't want to hear of another's occasional triumph, so such sharing is squashed. Ridiculous! It is one of the most important parts of being a good teacher--knowing ourselves and realizing what our personal interests and quirks and beauties can bring to the classroom and our department. 

        But still...those flaws: I hate grading speeches, and I don't want to return my messy rubrics to students. I am alternately self-deprecating and self-amazed. I’ll admit that most of the time I think I am special--flaw? But then, I think everyone is, and if we don’t unlock that in ourselves (or our students) or seek out other’s brilliance we are doomed. To boredom?

    Anyway, my flaws are real, but you have so many strengths, I’m sure. Just consider the things you love about literature, writing, and learning—those can all be shifted to strengths in the classroom. It’s not arrogant to admit there are some perks to being you. I’ve never met someone who didn’t have a lot to bring to the table. Show some cards. Play your hand. Winner winner chicken dinner.