It sounds like things are calming down, and you're getting better at problem solving, Lupita.
Think about what you're modeling for your students......
calm, logical communication, with perhaps a little humor, and isn't it wonderful that someone who had no voice in childhood can gift that to her students, Lupe!
Remember: People can only hear you if they feel you've listened to what they had to say.
It's good to let them finish speaking without any interruption, nodding occassionally to denote you're engaged, then perhaps slow talk back to them what you believe they just said.
This gives them the opportunity to feel heard, or clarify what they meant if you misunderstood something. It's OK to clarify what someone meant, or ask for clarification to avoid further misunderstandings. This is part of problem solving, Lupita.
Keep in mind that you're always the graceful, soft spoken, lady. It's possible to model calm communication politely and without BIG emotions, even though you're heart feels like it's about to pound out of your chest. No one else can hear it, and this is about bathroom hallpasses for goodness sakes.
If the teachers are expected to enforce bathroom hallpasses, there is the expectation that the teachers will be supported by the rest of the school faculty with enforcing that rule. You have a right to calmly ask for that support, and gently remind if it's not forthcoming, IMO. This is how you should handle all problems, Lupita. You have a right to ask for what you need, and to feel you deserve it, hon. You do.
You're so right about speaking gently, Lupe. It really helps people open up to hear what you're saying: )
Lighter
