Each day I take a group of Firsties to my room for a small group reading time. On the third day this conversation takes place:
First grade boy #1: Guys, she's not a real teacher.
At first, I don't register what he is saying. Then--
First grade boy #2: Yeah. She's just a helper.
Me: No. This is my classroom. I teach first grade.
They begin to argue with me. More kids join the conversation.
First grade girl #1: No. She's just a helper. She's not a real teacher.
Me: I AM A REAL TEACHER. This is my room we are in right now. Remember on the first day of school when the teachers stood in front of the whole first grade? I was up there with the other teachers.
First grade girl #2: No. I don't remember you. Sorry.
Me: I am at recess with you everyday. Don't you see me out there?
First grade girl #1: Lady, I am too busy playing to be looking for you.
Tomorrow will be better. Just sayin'.