Just when I thought I heard it all!

I work with a diverse population...education is pare for the course in that manner. I've heard every excuse imaginable as students have attempted to weasel their way out of the consequences of apathy and irresponsibility when it comes to completing school work. Really, many of my colleagues could write a book, or make a quirky calendar...and maybe actually make some money out of our career choice...hmm. Anyway, I was making routine parent phone calls this week with the purpose of communicating to parents/guardians the sad news that their student was not completing work, risking failure or removal from the course.

"Oh well, she's been really too busy to complete work over the last month because she's been taking care of the diabetic cat".

(insert sing-song voice by mom of said student)

(then insert stunned and laughable reaction by me)
True story.

Fat cat.

In all seriousness, these "excuses" from parents (yes, PARENTS) are becoming all too common these days. The expectation that teachers be responsible for more and more....yes, to primarily TEACH...but also to fill the role as social worker, counselor, psychologist....responsibility for moral and character development...and the list goes on. So yes, it frustrates me to see the public, and even our government, point the finger at inadequate educators/teachers when really, much of the decline and failure of our educational system lies at home with the decline of family structure, values and simply the investment of time into their own children.
Okay, off my soapbox...but not before I share the following article. :) http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/06/living/teachers-want-to-tell-parents/index.html