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Conflict Resolution

I have a tool in my classroom that helps students through the steps of conflict resolution. I have seen where it has helped students work through their own issues, and I don't have to get involved in every petty argument. It has been really great.

I am anticipating a conflict tomorrow between myself and my two 5th grade team mates. They don't want something, and I do. I have a feeling that I am going to get my way 1) because the principal and I are on the same page about the topic and 2) the principal likes me, and doesn't like them.

I have been thinking it over in my head about the situation. I can concede and go along with my team mate's idea in order to keep the peace on the 5th grade team. I can fight and get it my way in order that I get the situation resolved in the manner that I think is best. There is the potential for conflict with option B, which I don't care for, but I believe that option B is the best for the students and ultimately for us teachers.

I was talking this over with another teacher this afternoon, and she kept saying about that this is business, nothing personal. I don't know how easy that is to say in education. There are too many woman for starters in education for things not to be personal. Second, our school has so much drama it seems as though everything is personal. Finally, education is such an emotional and sensitive topic, that it is bound to be personal.

As this school year continues to move along, I have found that I have been growing a backbone. I am a sensitive person. Even if I have a tough exterior, I internalize and think about a lot of stuff. A lot of stuff that I need to say it is business, not personal. At times, especially in regards to my students, I have felt as though I need to go numb in order to not react and be hurt in order to remain in control.

Can I be an effective teacher and not feel? Can I turn off sensitivity for 8 hours a day and turn it back on when I come home? Is there a way to balance that?

I am probably making this a bigger deal than it needs to be. Ultimately I do not make the decision, so it is not in my control. Let it go, my friend, let it go.

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