and don't forget all the other issues we have in society today and how they're affecting our kids...so many more kids with ADHD thanks to (in my opinion) all the technology (Xbox, PS, etc) they have...behaviour issues when they don't get their own way (as they often do at home)...talking back (use of foul language even in elementary)...broken homes (sorry guys but divorce definitely has an impact on their psyche)...parents who don't have enough money to feed them (which is why I keep a stash of healthy snacks at school in case someone doesn't have a lunch/snack that day)...mental health issues of any kind is HUGE these days...not to mention cognitive issue like Autism, Down Syndrome etc...or how about the little guy/girl who doesn't get any attention or love at home and hugs me a million times a day because that's the only way they get any?...
sorry guys, but there's a ton more to being a teacher than just teaching (written as I sit here doing report cards, and keeping an eye on this thread)