Yesterday morning I left a half-hour early, so I could get to work a half-hour early. I was meeting with a parent whose daughter was failing not only my class, but all her others as well. I know this because I spent one period yesterday collecting her grades and attendance records.
The parent, who hadn't seen his daughter's report card, explained to me that his schedule precluded coming during my free periods. I went out of my way to accomodate him and he just blew me off. I mean, why not? It's only his daughter's education. It's not like he's missing American Idol, or something important.
So, as my principal would inquire, how am I failing to help this kid? Maybe it's because I don't follow her around to make sure she doesn't copy homework. Maybe it's because I don't run into the building from my trailer between periods and find her, then escort her to her classes so she doesn't cut. Maybe it's because I didn't quit my night job, go to her house twice a week, and tutor her so she wouldn't fail every single test I've given. There are so many things I could be doing wrong.
Deputy Chancellor Alonso says lack of parental involvement is no excuse. It has to be my fault. After all, it would take just as much effort to give her a 65 rather than a 55, and it wouldn't cost me a dime.
The thing is--I think this girl's in my class because that's precisely what her last teacher did.
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