Over the past year, I have been dealing with my own racisms
at work from my boss and other co-workers. It has been a very challenging year,
to the point where I almost quit on many occasions. Luckily, I did find support
with 2 other workers and through them we have worked out several of our issues.
However, during the roughest part I could have easily created an atmosphere in
which my anger and hurt from my boss was taken out on my children and families.
I hope that I did not do this, and in fact I am very close to a majority of my
families, but when dealing with the hurt that was caused to me I could have
made any one of my families feel bad because of what I was going through. Because
I am aware of how my own experiences can affect how I respond to others, I need
to make sure that I do not allow my hurt and anger reflect in my teachings and
dealings with my children and their families. I realize that it is not the
fault of the families I serve, and I need to keep separate how my boss makes me
feel and my position as teacher.
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteIt is really bad when you are working in an environment where you are not appreciated or respected. Most of us as early childhood professionals enter the field because of a desire to work with children, but working ineffectively with coworkers and a supervisor can lead to negative feelings about the choice of career. I am sorry you are going through this and I hope your situation improves.
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteReading your post reminds me of what I experienced as well. I'm so sorry that you have had this experienced this. It's hard when your work environment is hostile. At the beginning of my teaching experience I didn't know how to handle what I was going through. It's good that you have co-workers to lean on because at that time, I didn't have anyone to share my fears and challenges with. It's very difficult to separate your feelings from what you are going through. Hang in there...
Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your experience, I'm sure that is a very hard thing to share. I am so sorry you have had to experience "racism," what an awful thing. Does your place of employment offer an ethics hotline for employees? My company has this posted throughout our facility and encourages us to call any time we experience bias, discrimination, or stereotypes. I give you a lot of credit for being able to draw a line between the experience you are having with your boss and that of your responsibilities as an early childhood educator. It shows your credibility as an ECE! Stay strong and I really hope this situation improves for you.
Shawna
Hi Elizabeth,
ReplyDeleteThank you for sharing your story! It is so difficult to work in a situation when there are difficulties with a boss or even co-workers. I am so glad you found other co-workers for support. It takes a strong, dedicated person not to let these issues influence your attitude. I admire your professionalism and love for your children. I hope this issue becomes better for you. Stay strong! Cindy