Chapter 12: Pieces of Work: Seeing Beyond Behavior

As teachers, we wear the hats of educator, counselor, mentor, cheerleader, and guide. Our chosen vocation demands that investigator be added to that list because we investigate the mysteries that inhibit learning and strive to unravel the complexities of those students who mystify and stupefy. Sam was one of these students, and I met him during my year as a 49-year-old student teacher who, after being downsized out of a position for the third time in 23 years, was finally free of the shackles that bound me to my desk.

Seeking endorsements in language arts and social studies, I was assigned to two eighth grade cooperating teachers with very different classroom management styles and ways of interacting with middle school students. One was a 26-year veteran of the classroom; the other was a 9-year veteran. Both were exceptional mentors and, I found it curious that, each had warned me about Sam. While I am indebted to them both for the way they prepared me for the classroom, it was Sam who set the tone for me as I embarked on an adventure unlike any other.