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Teacher needs advice...


Fri, June 20, 2008 9:33 PM

I am creating a lot of anxiety for myself when I think about the upcoming school year. I have been reassigned to a new school which was built in 1930. There are three teacher bathrooms on the 1st floor and only kid bathrooms on the 2nd floor which, of course, is where my room will be. In years past, I have been lucky enough to be situated right next to a bathroom, so going wasn't a big deal. Now, all I keep thinking is what I would do in an emerency. Should  I tell the teachers in the rooms nearby that I have Crohn's and ask for their help in watching my students when I need to go? All I keep thinking is that there is no way I could use the student bathrooms since there is always someone using those. I would appreciate any advice! Thanks.

FPO krbuerg
Joined Nov 23, 2008

Wed, July 02, 2008 10:13 PM

 Reply posted for krbuerg.

Hello!  I am a Middle School teacher and I will be starting my 14th year in the fall.  I was diagnosed with Crohn's the week I started in my current school district.  Honesty is always the best policy.  My kids at school know I have stomach issues.  I eat often and on bad days leave class for a bathroom trip.  I usually grab whom ever is close to watch my class.  You would be surprised the kids who will be able to  relate to your same situation.   I think it actually helps us be more understanding with kids in our classes who walk in our shoes....many others don't understand. 

As far as administration....they should also know.  When they are changing room assignments, keeping you closer to a bathroom may not be that big of a deal for them.  I have had nothing but support in my last 14 years. 

The other thing I do is use my sick leave if I need a mental health day.  Stress is a huge issue and when things begin to pile, I don't hesitate to plan a sick day.   You need little breaks to rest sometimes.

Good luck!

FPO busymom
Joined Apr 8, 2008

Sat, June 28, 2008 4:19 PM

 Reply posted for Littlestar.

I was so excited to see a question about teaching.  I would love to talk with all of you about teaching and UC.  I was diagnosed in May and got my teaching license a few weeks later.  I am going to take a year off until my symptoms settle down and I get my health under control.  I wonder if I will ever be able to teach though.  You cannot leave the children alone and if an emergency arises it is a very uncomfortable situation.  Can anyone share their experiences.

FPO mirandaann
Joined May 28, 2008

Sun, June 22, 2008 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for krbuerg.

Hi again,  Don't be afraid to share this with your team.  You never know maybe one of them also has similar circumstances.  I have not met anyone except my son with the same condition but would find it comforting to know someone could relate at work.

FPO amberrae2
Joined Jun 21, 2008

Sat, June 21, 2008 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for krbuerg.

Thanks for the input! I am going to have to put my embarrassment aside and share this with my team.

FPO krbuerg
Joined Nov 23, 2008

Sat, June 21, 2008 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for krbuerg.

Hi teacher, I am a Kindergarten teacher with UC and have had many uncomfortable days.  All of the teachers that I work with know about my condition as does my principal.  I have never had any trouble getting coverage when an emergency arouse.  Please talk to your teaching team and let them know this is a chronic illness.  I know they will be very understanding and help you if needed. 

FPO amberrae2
Joined Jun 21, 2008

Sat, June 21, 2008 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for krbuerg.

I use to work as a teacher's aide in the school system and I although I hate doing it, I told the teachers I worked with about my condition so I could have coverage in case I needed to leacve the room in a hurry. I know this can be hard to talk about with new ppl but most ppl are understanding about this. Good luck!

FPO sarah
Joined Mar 7, 2008

Sat, June 21, 2008 12:00 AM

 Reply posted for krbuerg.

Does the School system know that you have Crohns, if not I would try to work something out with a teacher that you can really trust.  This is not something that you have much control of.  I hope you can find an answer and have a wonderful school year.

Littlestar

FPO littlestar
Joined Jul 26, 2008

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