I see you...

Clawing for control

I see you

Prewriting an office discipline referral before that scholar walks in

Wearing a stern face as you stand by your door

Raising your voice to "quiet" the class

Ignore some behaviors

While being laser focused on others

Placing scholars in groups based on behaviors rather than abilities

Demanding compliance over creativity

In my office wondering what the consequences will be

Making scholars feeling small 

As you feel the power of being in control

Caring and compassionate

I see you

Giving high fives to all scholars as they walk in

Hanging scholars' work from the ceiling

Making positive phone calls home

More than calling about "behavior issues"

Being creative in content and curriculum delivery

Asking scholars to take the lead

While you step to the side and learn with your class

At sporting events after school lets out

Opening your drawer and handing out another granola bar

Putting your heart and soul into the lives of our scholars

A king

I see you

Wearing the same pair of jeans you've worn for the past 3 days

With sleep in your eyes because you took care of the baby again last night

Sporting your only pair of Nike's 

Dreaming of the day you will play in the NBA

Walking down the hall when that kid just called you the "n" word

Putting your head down to get to class on time

Trying to pay attention to a curriculum that means nothing to you

Because it isn't about you

Being told to quiet down 

While the kids next to you keep talking

Coming into my office in tears

Because that teacher sent you out after 5 minutes... again

Sitting silently in the back in a world of isolation

Raising your fist in the air to remind us all

You are a king

Yes, scholar, through my eyes you are and always will be a KING!