5 SMART EXCUSES
1. Sickness and Injuries
If you’re really sick, you probably have a fever and are contagious. You may even have stomach issues and dizzy spells that make it impossible to stand up and teach. For the sake of your students’ health, stay home with the to try to recover quickly.Don’t use a sick day if you aren’t really under the weather. I once taught with laryngitis, and it was one of the best days of teaching ever. I used technology and had my students lead lessons. It was different from the norm and they were extremely attentive even though I never uttered a word. I saved my voice and didn’t have to go the hassle of finding a sub.
Injuries are another story. Short and long term injuries may
require extended time
off.
2. A Wedding and a Funeral
Everyone has special occasions throughout the year. Look ahead at your year and see where taking an extra day on the weekend is absolutely necessary.
Unfortunate events may happen to your loved ones. Be respectful and don’t use the excuse when it’s not warranted, like when you great aunt’s next door neighbors’ friends’ dog passes away. Be sensitive and honest.
3. Your Children are Sick or Injured
You can’t help what your kids get into, but every parent might have to miss work a day or two throughout the year to take care of family business. Make it clear to your principal what the issue is and try to line up an extra care giver for situations that aren’t dire. Though your students are important, giving your family priority over your job shouldn’t make you feel guilty. You’d want your students’ parents to do the same, so take pride in being a good parent and teacher.
4. Doctor’s Appointment
Try to schedule your Dr.‘s appointments at the beginning or end
of the school day so you don’t have to be out the whole day.
Another approach is to schedule them all in one day if possible to
minimize the amount of days you have to take off. My advice is to
schedule all of your appointments if possible in one day over the
summer. You won’t be watching the clock or have to leave sub
plans.
5. Your Sanity
I’m not talking about a little “mental health” day, but if you
are feeling overwhelmed or depressed, don’t put it off. See a
professional to talk about your work or family situation if either
are causing you to feel like you can’t handle your life. The
routine and comfort of work will not make your problems go away, so
deal with things head on.
