February Update

This is a post with multiple entries to cover some of the things I have wanted to say but have not quite managed. So allow me to verbalise briefly.

• Singapore Trip.

This was a trip organised and planned to happen from the 27 Feb to 2 Mar. It was initally an immersion programme for certain teachers(18 to be exact) to experience first-hand education in Singapore and to keep a check on how advanced or not we are. However, due to technicalities I shall not delve into, the 18 was cut down to 6 and even then right at the last minute the whole trip was scrapped. When people were handpicked to participate, there were a lot of grouses on why some were going and some were not. When the numbers dwindled, there was more dissatisfaction and people were really miffed. Cest la vie. I on the other hand was ever grateful that we didn't go cos i envisioned the amount of work upon return. Others I guess, focused on the FUN factor.

• SHORTs

It was a fantastic production despite all initial hiccups. I enjoyed myself thoroughly getting to know the girls, scolding them, holding their hands and shining a little in their limelight. I wish I had involved myself more and earlier but they did a wonderful job and I hope they learned all things that are not in the textbook. Teamwork equals team success.

• Movies

I have had a field time at the movies this month from The Green Hornet to Yogi Bear to Black Swan to I am Number Four and The King's Speech. Is it any wonder that Black Swan and The King's Speech are nominated? They were fantabulous movies of different genres which appeal to each and everyone of us, making us wonder how we have survived in Life as we know it. I look forward to watching Burlesque and much more.

• Work

In my line of work, I deal with all sorts of students. I mean ALL sorts. But I have realised despite winning the most friendly teacher award a couple of times, I am not so easy and comfortable at getting too close to my students. I think this is a result of having been to close to some in the past who have delve on so many personal problems, home and family which an outsider has no hold or control over that it has made me jaded. I dealt with discipline problems too and yet it is the suicidal ones which worry me the most. How does one convince another that taking one's own life is NOT and can never be the solution? What if I say or do the wrong thing? Am I equipped to handle such situations? How do I react to help them cope?

It is a mega responsibility to be a teacher. After 20 years, I am still struggling.