The 'R' Word

Last Friday I got an email from my assistant principal (my boss), asking to see me in her office when I had a minute. Right before I went to lunch I popped down to her office, and she asked me inside and closed the door. She told me she was concerned about something she had heard from two teachers about me. Well, the first thing that came to mind was that I did not tell her I was pregnant. (BTW, that is not her business!) Well, it turns out that these two teachers heard me use the R word in my classroom, once while students were present in the room.

I was in such shock that I could not even think of what to say. I would #1 never use that word in my room while students were present and #2 do not use that word, ever unless I am testing a kid who I feel would meet the qualifications for being retarded. So I sat there in her office with the door shut in total shock and disbelief. I was raised in an very open and loving home where the R word was worse than any cuss word that might slip from your mouth. I went to a local day care center with 2 boys who were, but I knew I should never talk about it and that I should be nice and caring to those 2 boys. I volunteered my high-school service hours in an Early Childhood Special Education Classroom where I met many a student who was, I volunteered at the Macoupin County ARC Camp Good Times Summer camp with many who were, I had a mother who was a special education teacher who taught those who were. I even attended the 10th anniversary of ADA 9 years ago with my own son. I am hurt at such accusations. I am hurt that my fellow colleagues could not come to me and voice their concerns with me in person, I also feel like someone is out to get me.

Well, Saturday a higher being spoke to me. On Saturday a gentleman and his grand kids came to take our fish pond away (another blog, I promise). His name is Bill. Well, Bill brought his big trailer over to pick up all the fish pond equipment, and out of his truck come his grand kids, and Gary. Gary is a down syndrome gentleman whom I worked with for many summers at the ARC camps. He remembered me! He even remembered the baby, who is now 10 year old Eddy. I know that some higher power sent Gary last Saturday to remind me that I am a good person who would never use the r word inappropriately. My boss has yet to meet with me, although I have sent her several emails about wanting to meet with her. I just want to tell her about Gary and myself.