The Bigger Issue

[A grade seven classroom]

[IRENE, 43, and SUZY, 23, are having an intense conversation. SUZY has her head in her hands.]

IRENE: What’s the first rule?

SUZY: I’m sorry? I don’t--

IRENE: There are rules, right? Rules a teacher has to follow. You were taught that, weren’t you. Taught about the rules.

SUZY: Yeah, but they weren’t numbered, so when you ask what the first one is I’m not sure what you–

IRENE: The most important one. I’m asking about the most important one.

SUZY: Well wouldn’t that depend on the circumstances--

IRENE: Jesus!

SUZY: Please don’t shout. It makes me really nervous.

IRENE: What’s the most important rule, Suzy! The most important rule for a teacher to follow. Even a new teacher. Especially a new teacher.

SUZY: [near tears] Well... I don’t know if it’s a rule exactly, but the most important thing to me is to always... always…

IRENE: Always what!

SUZY: Protect the children.

IRENE: No. That’s not it.

SUZY: It’s not? Really? How can that not be the most--

IRENE: All right it is. Basically it is. But how can you do that, how can you protect the children if you’re not in control. The most important “thing” is to always be in control.

SUZY: Of what?

IRENE: Of everything. But mostly yourself.  Always be in control of yourself!!

SUZY: Like you are now?