Yesterday, on my way to lunch, I caught the start of a fight between two of my 8th graders...one, an excellent student but a smart aleck little shit, always mouthing off; and the other a goofball, happy-go-lucky kid, quick with the jokes and slow with homework. The latter gave the first a serious shove that sent him flying and falling, back first, into the concrete bleachers...giving his head a good whack just as I passed.

“What's going on? You all right?" I have to ask.

“Fine.” answers the one on the ground, face red, fighting back tears.

“We're just playing around,” answers the other, trying to control his breathing as his chest pounds.

”OK,” I say, knowing they're both lying, “'cause if not, I need to write you up.” And I walk away. 

Sometimes people need a good ass-kicking.

Today I ran into the goof-ball in the hallway...as he swung around a pole to greet me good morning. I asked what was really going on yesterday...now that he's calm.

“They were bothering me and wouldn't stop.” The poor kid tells me, too scared to lie and a bit ashamed as well.

“OK, I’m not mad at you, he deserved it. But don't let me catch you next time.”

“But, I didn't know you were there, Miss,' surprised and still making excuses.

“Look over your shoulder next time.” And I walk off for my coffee, pleased.

May 2004

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