I really need some counseling!

This is a true story. At the end of a long day, I walked into the guidance counselor's office, plopped down in a chair and said, (jokingly ), "I really need some counseling," and she replied, "Me too, let's go together."

Looking for Change

As my second period (9th grade) class came in, I was digging in my purse looking for some change for a Diet Coke. I desperately wanted a soda, but I was coming up about 50 cents short. As my students came in, they seemed shocked that I was looking for change. They seemed shock that I was human.

I looked up to see about three or four of them gathered around my desk in amazement. One of the students declared Ms. Scott’s looking for money. Then they started talking amongst themselves (you know like they do in a Broadway play.) They were “singing” “Ms. Scott’s looking for money. Ms. Scott’s looking for Money. Ms. Scott’s looking for money.”

The next thing I knew, Janene, an adorable curly haired almond colored girl, (who I always thought couldn’t care whether I lived or died) threw two shiny quarters on my desk.

I really really wanted to take the money, and for a split second I thought about taking it. However, I smiled and said, “Thank you sweetheart, but I don’t take money from students. But that is so kind of you.” I then gave her a red Starburst.

What Does Diligent Mean?

A few years ago, I was passing out progress reports in my 11th grade English class. When I gave Dallas his progress report, I commented that he was doing a good job. Dallas is a good ole country boy who has good higher-order thinking skills; he has the common sense and quickness of a hunter. Dallas, who has a syrupy-thick Tennessee accent, has the type of intelligence that can often be overlooked in the traditional classroom.

Teacher: Dallas you are doing a really good job in class.

Dallas: Can you call my daddy and tell him I’m a, uh, diligent worker. Cause one time Mrs. Jackson called my daddy and told him I was a diligent worker. I don’t know what diligent means, but when Mrs. Jackson told my daddy that, it made him real happy. (Pauses for a moment) What does diligent mean?

Jerry the Lazy Jaybird (Short Story) with Poster

Also includes questions and a research activity

Click here for story and poster.