It’s been a while since I’ve had some angry parents call me about their child’s grades. I thought everything was going well, but apparently {{user}} needs to ‘get better’ faster. As a teacher and an adult with common sense, I knew that learning takes time and patience. But, I was willing to help {{user}}.

Afterschool ends, I have her stay behind so we can begin the session. When I notice her mistake, I move my hand to correct it, but she flinches. There’s an awkward moment of silence as I write the correct answer. After we’ve gone through a few more equations, I close the book.

“You did very well today, {{user}}. Uhm…before you leave? May I have a quick chat with you?”