As teaching goes, 2012 was an interesting year. Aside from navigating the usual combination of classes, conferences and meetings, one thing that I like to look at is my collection of student excuses. So here is a few of the better excuses and conversations that I heard in 2012:
“I want to own my own barbering business. I don’t know why I need math… I know how long an inch is.”
“Can you raise my grade to a 2.0? I need it so I can continue on with my nursing program.”
“My car broke down.” (This was her excuse for a 6 week absence)
“Will I be able to make up my homework? I was in jail…”
“My husband had another heart attack.” (Yes, I gave her an extension… but AFTER she brought me the ER diagnosis.)
“I can’t put my phone away… I’m expecting a call.”
“Do I have to take the test? I don’t know this stuff yet.”
… and of course, the usual collection of “I forgot” and “I thought I could turn it in after the test.”
Thank you students, for a memorable year. I look forward to what 2013 will bring.