Some years ago (I won't give the exact year), one of my students asked if I could be her dad. She was leaving for the day and just before walking out of the North doors of the school, asked me that question. Wow! Loaded question. Flem, think quick. What you say here could completely hurt or encourage her. VERY quick word of silent prayer.
"I can't be your dad, but I promise that as long as you're a student in my class, I will be the best teacher I can be for you! How's that?"
"Ok," she replied gleefully as she left the school.
Happy Fathers' Day to all the real ones out there, biological or otherwise!
Some call me "Flem"
- Dr. Stephen R. Flemming
- I'm an elementary school teacher turned high school English teacher, School-Based Teacher Leader (SBTL), and adjunct professor here in Philly. These posts are the views, as I see them, from room 105, my first classroom number. Enjoy, engage, and share!
