AITA for writing so bad my teacher couldn’t read it because he didn’t let me use my support?
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When a Teacher’s Doubt Turns into a Test of Patience
A 14-year-old girl with severe dyspraxia faces a frustrating challenge when her teacher refuses to acknowledge her need for a laptop during a crucial history test. Despite being on the list for accommodations, she is forced to write by hand, leading her to intentionally submit a messy paper as a form of protest. This relatable story highlights the struggles of students with disabilities and the importance of understanding and support in educational settings. It raises thought-provoking questions about authority, communication, and the lengths one might go to assert their rights in the face of misunderstanding.
Am I the Asshole for Reporting My Teacher?
A 14-year-old girl from the UK shares her experience regarding a conflict with a teacher during a history test. The situation escalated due to her learning difficulties and the teacher’s lack of understanding. Here’s a breakdown of the events:
- Background: The girl has severe dyspraxia, which affects her writing abilities. Despite appearing “normal,” she struggles with tasks like running and writing quickly.
- Previous Education: At her old school, students were taught to write in cursive, which hindered her ability to write efficiently. She has a concession allowing her to use a laptop for longer writing tasks.
- Test Situation: During a history test that required eight essay-style questions, she attempted to use her laptop. However, her teacher, Mr. S, stopped her, claiming she was not on the list of students allowed to use such devices.
- Conflict Escalation: Despite being on the list, Mr. S insisted she put her device away or face detention. In response, she decided to write her answers in a less careful manner to conserve energy.
- Aftermath: After completing the test, she reported Mr. S to the head of counseling and welfare, explaining the situation. This led to Mr. S receiving a reprimand.
- Teacher’s Reaction: Mr. S accused her of being “disrespectful” and claimed her writing was “unacceptable,” suggesting she was seeking attention. He reported her to another teacher.
- Support from Peers: Despite the teacher’s accusations, her friends supported her, affirming her side of the story.
- Reflection: The girl is now questioning whether her actions were justified or if she overreacted in the situation.
This incident highlights the challenges of family drama and wedding tension that can arise from misunderstandings in educational settings. It also emphasizes the importance of conflict resolution and the need for teachers to be aware of their students’ individual needs.
In conclusion, the girl is left wondering if she is the “asshole” for reporting her teacher, given the circumstances surrounding her condition and the teacher’s lack of understanding. What do you think?
This is Original story from Reddit
Image credit: Pixabay (This is example image – Not the actual photo)
Story
I, 14f, live in the UK and therefore have to do my GCSEs next year. In preparation for these tests, we must do “mini” tests with our chosen subjects beforehand. I also happen to have severe dyspraxia.
I can talk and “look normal,” but only as a result of years of OT. I can’t run properly or move quickly, and the one thing I can’t do is write. My old school didn’t teach students to write normally, and we were scolded if our handwriting wasn’t in cursive joined up, so I never learned to write like the other kids quickly.
All my writing is in cursive, and I only learned to write with a fountain pen. The school also didn’t allow us to carry non-fountain pens. I manage just fine, as I have had a laptop concession and word processor for any writing task that takes longer than 30 minutes, and I recently took it up full time as my condition worsened with puberty.
Here’s where my story starts. My teacher, we’ll call him Mr. S, gave out the test papers for a history test—a test that requires eight essay-style questions. Naturally, I pulled out my device, which I don’t normally use in history because there’s not a lot of writing; it’s mostly sheets and bullet points, but Mr. S stopped me.
He said he didn’t see my name on the list of students allowed, even though I am definitely on the list as the only student there with a concession and extra time, and demanded I put my device away or he’d give me a detention. Begrudgingly, I put it away and decided if he wanted to play, then I’d shoot too. I’m rather petty, and this was one of those instances, but I feel it was justified.
I opened my paper, and while writing my answer, I didn’t exert myself. This was an hour-long assessment, and I knew I’d burn out if I did my “bestest girlies neatest calligraphy,” so I didn’t. I just wrote loosely and didn’t clench my hand to the point of cramping.
By the final question, I was exhausted and practically scrawling away, so I handed in my sheet and went directly to the head of counseling and welfare. I told her everything, and she went to give Mr. S a slap on the wrist and reload my name on the god-protected list. Soon after, Mr. S reported me to a teacher I’m under for being “disrespectful” after my writing was “unacceptable” and basically accused me of attention-seeking.
I have cc’d in the welfare department, who have my records in the email he sent me, and made sure to keep up my teacher’s pet act I’ve been building my reputation around for the past four years in front of teachers. Anyway, now I’m having the office tell me it was unfair on Mr. S, who didn’t know the severity of my condition, and I should’ve just talked to him. I tried. However, my friends are backing me up.
It’s been weighing on my mind, so tell me, Reddit. Am I the Asshole?
TL;DR
My teacher didn’t believe I had a real problem and forced me to handwrite a test. I reported him and scrawled my essay.
View the Original Reddit Post Here
Summary of Reddit Comments
The top Reddit comments indicate a strong consensus that the original poster (OP) is not at fault (NTA) for following the necessary accommodations for their disability. Users emphasize that the teacher’s refusal to allow the OP to use their device was unreasonable and potentially illegal, highlighting that the responsibility lies with the teacher for not adhering to proper protocols. Many commenters encourage the OP to continue advocating for themselves and seek support from higher authorities to address the situation.
Verdict: NTA
Expert Advice for Resolving the Conflict
Conflicts in educational settings can be challenging, especially when they involve misunderstandings about accommodations for disabilities. Here are some practical steps for both the student and the teacher to help resolve the situation and prevent future issues:
For the Student (OP)
- Document Everything: Keep a detailed record of all interactions with the teacher regarding accommodations, including dates, times, and what was discussed. This documentation can be helpful if further action is needed.
- Communicate Openly: If comfortable, consider having a calm conversation with Mr. S to express how his actions affected you. Use “I” statements to share your feelings without sounding accusatory (e.g., “I felt anxious when I was not allowed to use my laptop”).
- Seek Support: Continue to lean on your friends for emotional support. Additionally, involve a trusted adult, such as a parent or counselor, who can advocate on your behalf if needed.
- Follow Up: After reporting the incident, check in with the head of counseling and welfare to ensure that your concerns are being addressed and to discuss any further steps that may be necessary.
- Know Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights regarding educational accommodations for disabilities. This knowledge can empower you to advocate for yourself effectively.
For the Teacher (Mr. S)
- Reflect on the Situation: Take time to consider the events from the student’s perspective. Understanding the challenges faced by students with disabilities can foster empathy and improve future interactions.
- Engage in Professional Development: Consider attending training sessions or workshops focused on teaching students with learning difficulties. This can enhance your understanding of how to support all students effectively.
- Communicate with Administration: Discuss the incident with school administration to clarify the policies regarding accommodations. This can help prevent similar misunderstandings in the future.
- Foster an Inclusive Environment: Create a classroom atmosphere where students feel safe to express their needs. Encourage open dialogue about accommodations and be proactive in checking in with students who may require additional support.
- Apologize if Necessary: If you recognize that your actions were misguided, consider offering a sincere apology to the student. Acknowledging mistakes can help rebuild trust and improve the student-teacher relationship.
By taking these steps, both the student and the teacher can work towards a resolution that fosters understanding and support, ultimately creating a more inclusive educational environment.
Join the Discussion
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What do you think? Would you have handled this differently?
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