Nightmare

Tonight I watched a movie on Lifetime called Fab Five and while watching it, I practically pulled out my own hair. It was pretty much torture for me, as a teacher, to watch this movie which is about 5 girl cheerleaders who have complete control over their administration, do whatever they want, and have no consequences for their actions.

The way they treat their teachers in this movie was painful for me to watch because it actually brings to life the ONLY recurring nightmare I've ever had in my entire life. In my nightmare my students are running amuck (sp?) in the classroom and absolutely refuse to listen to me. I have no control.. my principal can't (or in some cases won't) help me.. and it is literally the worst feeling ever. When I have this dream I usually wake up shaking my head around like a maniac because I am so crazy and upset about it.

Well, in this movie.. (which apparently is based on a true story) exactly that has happened. These girls (one of whom is the daughter of the school principal) are able to do exactly what they want and get away with it. None of the teachers have any control over the girls.. and the principal does nothing to help.

I don't know if this was the best movie for me to watch before this school year begins.. because this year I will have a very challenging class. Last year this class walked all over their teacher and acted more like wild animals than teenagers. I don't doubt that all they need is structure and some "tough" love... and that I will be able to tame them and (hopefully) bring out the best in them.

But.. I also don't doubt that before the year is over.. I will have had many of my recurring nightmares of a class that has gone out of my control.

*Wish me luck.