Surprised By a Slacker

If you looked up "slacker" in the dictionary, you would find a picture of one of my students...we'll call him Johnny (not his real name). He's a 12th grader and he just wants to be out of school (I can't say that I blame him). He has already missed a few days or has been late and it is only week two. I try really hard not to let first impressions affect how I teach, giving all of my students the benefit of the doubt, but after a few mishaps or let-downs, it's hard not to consider them a "slacker."

Today in class, I decided that I was going to make a conscious effort to include this kid. Today we had a great lesson on the types of government, and I began questioning the class about what type of government is the best--authoritarian or democratic. Out of the blue, Johnny starts arguing with passion with his fellow classmates!! He was talking about the importance of spreading freedom and democracy and the war on terrorism. He was holding his own against some of the school's top students! After class, I had to congratulate him on a wonderful discussion! It was just too impressive!

I think it proves a valid point to me today--you have to be very careful when judging other people because they have the ability to prove you wrong EVERY time!

Is there someone in your world of which you may have the wrong impression? Makes you think, doesn't it?