How to Deal With Toxic Teachers | High School Teacher Vlog

[@stephenobrien2952]

Be the teacher you want for your own children.

[@samanthagiggles3215]

My son had a teacher so toxic in 5th grade that during our parent teacher meeting she came out and said she hated my child. It was his last teacher and ended up homeschooling him and my two younger kids. He is an adult now with a good job.

[@juliamoyer9]

As a high school student, I write letters to my teachers. Even if they aren't my favorite I try to bring out the little things that they do to make their classroom environment better. Thanks Reynolds for another awesome video!

[@KateTheSleepyTeacher]

Julia Moyer I love that. You have no idea how much of an impact that can have on teachers. Thank you for being so thoughtful. :)

[@Yesica1993]

@ Julia Moyer That is so great! I bet few of them have ever received a note like that, unless maybe once in a while from older adults who are thinking back. To have it from a current student is such an encouragement! I bet teachers feel a lot of times like they are not getting through or making any difference in the lives of these kids. Your note might make the difference between someone quitting, and someone fighting on!

[@estherkoch8647]

Faith in humanity restored! ❤️

[@rmsmith8098]

You perfectly described our teacher's lounge and that's why I avoid it like the plague! I would rather be with my high school students at lunch any day. They have me laughing every day!

[@keturah7749]

You made me want to be a teacher. You actually make teaching fun and enjoyable. I know this is cheesy but I aspire to be a teacher like that.

[@CJReynolds]

It’s not cheesy at all. I appreciate it more than you know. ☺️

[@AhappyteacherAtruestory]

This is just the right answer to my video "stop farting in the teachers' lounge!" I can deal with negativity right now, but, at some point, when it's too much, when everyone around me is negative and it happens quite a lot, I simply leave the room. My tips: I surround myself with positive people, I try to make people laugh, there's always something to laugh about, that's why I'm still a happy teacher! :) Being negative is like farting in an elevator. It bothers everyone!

[@yeseniafuentessantos995]

Five hundred likes to this 👨!

[@lauracampion6781]

My administrator starts every staff meeting with “colleague kisses”. We can give a kiss (Hershey kiss, of course!) to any colleague for an act of kindness they have done. ie. stepping in to help with a difficult student, taking a recess duty for someone ill, sharing a lesson idea, etc. It’s a positive start to our meetings, and a chance to give shout-outs to our unsung, overlooked colleagues.

[@kimboga90]

It's funny that you mentioned this because I was a first year teacher last year and I never went to the teacher's lounge or interacted that much with my negative co-teacher. Like I said, I was a first year and it was her 20th year, she hated field trips and doing activities with the kids. She spoke shit about me behind my back and even when I found out, I did not speak shit about her. I didn't want to be the 'that' person. I felt much more at peace not knowing gossip or listening to negative teachers. I work in a new school now, but I can see how a new teacher transforms into "that" teacher. They become miserable themselves and burn out faster than others. Thanks for this vid.

[@CJReynolds]

+kimboga90 Sorry that happened Kim. The job now if for you to find a new teacher that is struggling and just let them know you are there should they ever need something. You have the power. 😊

[@justine.c]

I'm about 4 years too late for this comment, but just saw it. I can relate to this. I tried to accommodate the other teacher to help them be more comfortable and offer to use tools she was comfortable with. There was no compromise. And I changed my format and approach for her then she didnt follow through to meet me halfway. Reflecting after the year, everything shared was from me, nothing had her "stamp" on it. As a result, our co-taught class never meshed and felt disjointed. It should have been on fire. I just find my way to those that want to work together or collaborate on something to really light it up. I may not be a "veteran" teacher, but my experiences have helped those that are and vice versa.

[@MidlifeMusicTeacher]

For teacher appreciation week I have my students make cards for every adult working in the school. I get the staff list and I bring in construction paper, markers, stickers... Everyone gets a homemade card. I find this is something that we don’t get a lot of at the middle school level. Elementary kids (and their parents) are “gifters” and high school kids tend to be more appreciative, but middle school teachers often go unthanked, and sometimes unappreciated. Yes, it takes time out of class during a very busy time of year but I think it’s so important to spread the love ❤️

[@CJReynolds]

+Midlife Music Teacher yes!!! You are so right. I do something similar but not for everyone. Maybe that changes this year just because of you. I always laugh at all of my friends that get tons of stuff from their elementary school kids. Thanks for being awesome!

[@elizabethhoover4672]

My first year teaching my mentor teacher used to openly bash other teachers to me and other teachers. It made me so uncomfortable. I ended up keeping my distance to the best of my ability and befriending another teacher who was really supportive and nice. I went to her whenever I wanted feedback or advice. I ate lunch in my room every day. I also let my kids hang out in my room if they wanted to. It made a big difference and helped me a lot. What we do is so rewarding and it is a really complex job (it definitely feels this way for me as a new teacher). Having positivity around me SAVED me. This video was great!

[@KateTheSleepyTeacher]

Btw... last year, for teacher appreciation I gave all my daily special treats - cookies, teas, lunches - to those I knew were not getting anything (such as our specials teachers and safety crew / lunch ladies / custodians) . I just wanted to recognize them as well because in my opinion no one person is more important than another. #spreadunicorntearslikekindness

[@sairam-ul7gq]

This time last year, the head of my sixth form straight up told me to not bother aiming to study dentistry to become a dentist, after I failed my chemistry end of year exam. She stopped me from studying it in my final year of sixth form, and also told me to not even aim for the science based degree options I was looking at; such as neuroscience. She crushed my confidence in myself after telling me I would never be able to get into Universities of my choice because I was apparently “not good enough” at chemistry and said that I should do something I was better at. But now, as I have taken a gap year after finishing sixth form and I’ve decided to study chemistry to get the A level qualification needed to study Dentistry and to then get in to Dental school- the complete opposite of what she had drilled into my head. But then again, I’m sure every person has had a similar experience with any other person telling them they can not accomplish their goals 😁 You’re such a great teacher and you seem like such a lovely person to be around- I am so so glad that pretty much everyone you teach or talk to through KZbin feels inspired by you, because more human beings like you are needed on this planet!! ((I’m not sure what the American equivalent is to it- but sixth form is where 16-18 yr olds study for A-level qualifications before starting uni))

[@Chelle8847]

Im from England too (assuming you're a Brit cos of the sixth form reference!) and i THINK americans, most, stay in school til they're 18, as in their schools go up to 18, then they go to College, which is University. That's just my vague idea of what the equivalent is! Also well done for not giving up on your goal! :)

[@kcnurse19]

I try to listen between the lines. Sometimes there is a deeper problem that we don’t know about. I am the school nurse so people will tell me about things they don’t want to talk about and the opportunity to just unload your fears to someone who will keep it to them self is helpful.

[@annenance9044]

Here's what I do: 1. I refuse to acknowledge anyone's toxicity. I just give the benefit of the doubt and assume they mean the best. 2. If someone is talking negatively about someone else, I try to turn it around into a positive, and openly appreciate that quality. Example: Teacher A says, "Dudley is driving me crazy. He never EVER has a pencil when he comes to my class." I say, "I know!!! That kid has the most amazing powers of persuasion I have ever seen! Every single day, he is able to talk someone into GIVING him a pencil. Even me! He should be on the fundraising committee or something!" 3. I say something nice about Teacher A.

[@robinsartsandcrafts6500]

Oh my gosh! I work as a private contractor teaching art. One program I work for sends me into public schools up to an hour away. I was at a new school and went into the teachers lounge during a break hoping for some info and support. There were maybe 8 teachers in the room, when I went in everyone was sitting at the two tables and no one invited me to sit with them so I went and sat alone in the couch to eat my lunch. Not one person said hi to me, they just sat there gossiping. When I finished eating I went to try and figure out the copier, struggled with it a bit, no one offered to help. I left thinking, “wow, what if I were a new permanent staff member, that would have felt all the more crappy.” For the next 7 Mondays I ate alone outside, where all the kids saw me as they passed, and showered me with friendly greetings even if they didn’t know me. Of course being a guest art teacher is like being a rock star to kids, but in general, their hearts just haven’t died yet. No joke was that toxic, and I’ve avoided the teachers lounges ever since. How are we supposed to expect kids to be kind to new students and invite them to sit if we can’t even do this ourselves? I’ve had some reeeeeeeealy crappy teachers in my lifetime, downright abusive. Some people enter professions of power because they are narcissists or power hungry. I know it’s helpful to try to see the good in everyone, but these people need to be removed from positions of power.

[@ellajane7483]

This is a great video. It is so easy to get sucked into the negativity. I got some wonderful advice from a great teacher years ago, and like you, she said to just be the positive one. It is hard to keep being negative when the person you are talking to is not buying into it. I love your positive attitude! I teach elementary school, and last year I started "Free Hug Friday"...basically, I just give out free hugs as the kids walk by. I have a Free Hugs shirt that I got from the Free Hugs Project and another one by Kid President that says, "Haters Gonna Hate, Huggers Gonna Hug." The kids love when I wear them. One student that is not in my class and I might not have even known told me that this was the only good thing that happens to her. Amazing how a little act can make a difference, and I love that you do so many "little acts." You are an inspiration. Thank you.

[@Niamirismom]

I made a video at the start of the year addressing this same issue for "new" teachers. Whether new to the building or to teaching overall, the buzz-killers are a no-no. I eat in my room or like you, invite my power people in. Some days I sit in my car and jam or call someone I love to inspire me. I wish you were in my school Reynolds...we'd just sing karaoke! 😂😂😂

[@profbvlogs3396]

Reynolds, I somehow missed this video (followed you after it was posted I suppose lol), but it is gold! I taught summer school this past summer and this was one of the issues I had. It was one teacher who was very negative about my practice and I became the talk of the lounge for "doing too much". I didn't know how to handle it so I distanced myself which later became the norm. This video helped me not only understand how to handle it, but allowed me to see the point of view of those "toxic teachers". I appreciate all of your videos, you're teaching far more "students" than you see!

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks Coach! Keeping doing too much! The kids benefit so the hell with what everyone else thinks. Get it buddy!!

[@MisterMarkTV]

Thanks for including the say "hi" to everyone. I am also a high school teacher, and that attitude and practice is fundamental. Appreciated the entire video! Good work!

[@gibsonedu]

Thankful Thursday. Ask everyone who comes to class (or walks by the room) what they're thankful for besides their friends and family (since those are usually default answers).

[@FunnyFallGuy]

the Just as a side comment, I think the correct name for "janitor" is "custodian". At most places I've taught, the cleaning/fixing staff like to be called "custodians" as opposed to "janitors". I love your idea about having the kids write a note to a teachers, telling about their appreciation for something that teacher does! I have an album of all the super special notes kids have given me over the years. Looking back at the album is always super energizing and I love to tell the kids that!

[@CJReynolds]

The album is a great idea. I keep mine in a box in the attic but your idea is much better. Thanks!

[@luisa-ks8lc]

Thanks, now she can stop shaming us My teacher is too toxic because she shames everyone she can. She told my best friend that nobody likes her drawings and that she’s not good enough. She told my brother he was the worst kid she’s ever taught.And she told me ,after basically doing my work the best I can “ You need to improve you are not trying hard enough”. So I have a plan. I’m gonna get a book and write everything she says to me down. At my parents night. Well you guess what will happen

[@nicholashansen6121]

I'm an English/Secondary education major and I've wanted to teach at a high need school ever since I was a student. This channel is so freakin' valuable.

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks Nick! I really really appreciate you saying that! 👍🏽

[@SarahWheeleeTravels]

Well I am a Tigger and Eeoyre combo, my district is snuffing my light which makes me not just go Eeoyre but if Rabbit and Eeoyre had a talkative intense angry baby, that’s what I am when my Tigger is snuffed out. So what I do to combat my own Eeoyre is I have lists of “my sunshine students” and “shit my students say” because it never fails those lists bring a smile to my face. I also write thank you notes to the other Eeoyre when there’s a chance or they helped me. I write down powerful days when I didn’t just teach foreshadowing but I also taught a kid to apologize sincerely or open their minds to a new way to listen. So lists and a journal keep my Eeoyre days away. I show Disney movies at lunch in my room, so I have a few different groups that come in. I always introduce anyone new to people they don’t know. It brings me joy to see new friendships spawn. Other than that I do alllll the things you do, invite my tribe out for drinks and turn up my Tigger when the admin hasn’t gotten to me.

[@summerhayward6927]

I needed this! Some of the teachers in my school are very negative to me....it seems to help them to get it off their chest and I have to remind myself that they aren't negative people, they are just venting frustrations we all have. We all handle things differently and I don't do well with that sort of behavior ... it sucks me in and I tend to feel myself becoming negative as well. I eat in my room most days, I have student council meetings in my room where I eat with my kids. I am considering inviting other kids to eat in my room with me (the ones who don't have a ton of friends) but I need to chat with admin about that....but I would say this...it's really important not to cut yourself off from the other teachers, even if they are negative. You need to find things that have nothing to do with teaching you have in common...a book, a movie, a show, a hobby...something and talk with them about that....we sometimes forget we aren't JUST teachers and neither are our coworkers :)

[@MrsMoore1]

Thank you for saying that! The ones that isolate themselves can actually be toxic as well.

[@ptcla]

My experience with toxic (negative or jaded) teachers is that I would keep them at arm's length. I would often keep my mouth shut or check what I wanted to say before saying it.

[@theangel2323]

I love your video style so entertaining! Thanks to you I have stepped out of my comfort zone and done crazy things just to make people (not just the kids) smile and laugh and it's great. The kids love the glasses with slinky eyes! Ty so much for all you do for us, I teach prek and get a lot of helpful tips! Ty again

[@dianedavis208]

I pray for them. I also speak and I am friendly when I see them. I believe in a culture of honor.

[@blackwoman3839401]

I say good morning. I genuinely ask how they are feeling. I tell them they are fantastic and I allow the teachers to always state how they are feeling. I suggest, books and videos and tell my colleagues, IT'S OK.

[@--jade--]

Love love love love love!!!!!!! Two things I've done: Wow notebooks. One teacher wriyes an anonymous note and delivers it to the teacher it's for. Then that teacher writes a note in the journal and delivers it, and it moves around the school silently spreading love and positivity and kudos that are often things unsaid. Teachers don't get pats on the back and encouragement often enough! We also do "you've been mugged" which you can find online, but basically you take a mug and fill it with cool stuff and deliver it to a teacher. They can keep the mug or pass it on, but then they mug someone, and it also keeps going. You put a small image of a mug in the corner of your door so teachers know who has yet to be mugged. I'm hoping this one follows through more this year!

[@amandacaitlin7647]

This is awesome! I've been brainstorming ways to really reiterate to the students all the things we can be thankful for. Especially with the holidays coming up I'm definitely going to try and integrate some of these tips to help try and boost the moral of everyone at school.

[@KateTheSleepyTeacher]

CJ, Loved this video, my friend. Toxicity is such a problem. I think that often times frustration also leads to toxicity. Side note.... At my school I've worked very hard to change our lunch conversations. We talk about , in general, our lives and not about school (which has been such a nice way to bond). Thanks again for doing this with me :)

[@michelleclark-cadwell7258]

At the end of the school year, I completely identify with the need to deal with , or avoid, toxic teachers. It is so easy to focus on the negative, the challenges of teaching, for some at least. To deal with toxic teachers, I am a big proponent of removing myself from the situation. I get to to choose who I hang out with; I choose people from whom I can garner wisdom, have conversations that boost me up, and who sustain my teaching energy rather than suck the air out of it! In short, I do not eat in the teacher's lounge, I eat in my room with my favorite colleagues. This helps me retain my love of teaching and remember why I do it- for my students. Thank you for your inspiration.

[@CJReynolds]

Absolutely!! It can be hard to pull yourself away. Great work!!

[@Pinl5349]

I swear, sometimes listening to you speak is like hearing my own thoughts spoken out loud lol. I sometimes need to put a little distance between myself and the Eeyores, (I know a few and I think of them as just that) but sometimes if I am there with them and they are complaining, I might try to ask a question to hopefully shift things, like "So what do you think might fix things?" I have a few other tricks up my sleeve but if all else fails, and I feel like I might be the only one in the room that can keep the energy from tanking, then I might go to "childhood." In my experience, everyone loves to chime in on a casual conversation of sharing about funny or awkward childhood memories. But that's kind of my back pocket thing.

[@shockingteaches4699]

Here in Australia, and at my school in particular (I know other school's here do this, but some have departmental teacher staffrooms) we have a common room and then a staffroom which houses every single high school teachers desk and workspace. We do not have our own classrooms, we share our classrooms with many other teachers (which is another thing in and of itself). This means that we are up in each other's craw ALL THE TIME! However, in saying that, it can be a lot of fun. Some days are frustrating and other days are super fun, but something our principle tells us come report and marking time (which is currently looming) - "Fight holding hands". Now, we don't often had people getting upset about other teachers, but it does occasionally happen. We are a Christian school, so most of our teachers have some self-control. One thing that I like to do for my fellow teachers when I can see that they are upset or grumpy or stressed, is I randomly leave chocolates on their desks, or I leave them printed quotes or scriptures, and sometimes I will stop what I am doing, grab their hands and pray for them. This generally helps them calm down and you can see it when their shoulders say in relief that someone has SEEN them and their struggles. Great video, BTW...you are an inspiration to me, and I am enjoying your videos so much! Thanks for being AWESOME!

[@CJReynolds]

+Shocking Teaches that’s sounds like a wonderful experience. I love that you have that freedom to pray with someone in the open. Thanks for the kind words. I’m glad I can be of some help. 😊

[@Socute4u]

Something that I do to help with the negativity is I find something nice to say about someone's outfit or their hair or how they just look great and that usually puts a smile on their face at least for the moment, sometimes in the hallways the teachers will put up their students work and I will compliment them on the things they are doing in the classroom.

[@decorianlowery9068]

Thank you for making awesome content each week!

[@adellekallemeyn7335]

I just avoid them as much as possible, but if I bump into them I say hi and keep the dialog short. I fight depression so negative talk or comments really get me down. I try to find positive, uplifting people to hang around. This keeps my spirits up and my mind positive. I love fun, positive people who are down to earth. I can't stand fake, negative people.

[@LoganPrewett101]

I love your metaphor with the Sirens! 😂😂 Mr. Reynolds has to be a great coworker. I totally dip out of a room, if I hear negativity floating around. Nobody has time for the Krusty Krab.

[@mrs.elhewitt8910]

The power of saying hi- yes!

[@mrs.elhewitt8910]

Lol- and I moved to a new school!

[@chrisdoorduin8537]

Being a new teacher I use the same tactic as with a new class of students: "Divide and conquer". I focus very strongly on building positive bonds with teachers that are willing to do so, up to the point that I'm a force to contend with. From that point I'm hoping to set a positive tone in a space, together with the friendly teachers. Great tip btw on letting the children write cards for the other teachers, that must magnify respect.

[@graceforallyouradventures]

I do the same thing with teachers that I do with my students - BE CONSISTENT! Love and more love. Literally, they will either jump on the joy bandwagon or be silenced with kindness.

[@TJ-cf7ro]

Honestly as a teacher and you made a scene with "too much love" thats the last conversation we are having

[@TheDionnaDancinggirl]

I know you made this video 3 years ago but what you say is still valid today. My son has a toxic teacher and I called her out and she did not like that. But you advice is awesome in many ways! I appreciate you!

[@Xsdwolf]

I am so glad I found your videos. I'm not a teacher, I'm a staff member at a boys and girls club. I have a class I deal with and we have physical activities, power hour (classroom setting where one staff member presides over their classroom as the students work on homework and reading), and an enrichment activity where we the staff come up with activities for the kids to do with a focus on different things depending on the day. The problem I've been having is my inability to effectively manage the kids. I've seen a few KZbin videos already and I realize I am a walking talking example of what not to do. I raise my voice to quickly, I'm inconsistent, and I have no effective system in place for the kids I teach. It's just bad. I don't blame my kids, even if they can be a little rowdy, I really blame myself right now. I'm failing them and despite the fact that it's just a part time after school gig, I've come to really love this job and the students I take care of. I used to be a combat medic in the military, so I've always been proud of my ability to stay calm and assess situations, but just this week I was in a situation where a few kids were having a meltdown and I was unable to get the situation under control. I had to call my supervisor and an experienced staff member to control the situation because I was just that much of a mess. It's gotten to the point where I've even considered quiting (something I've never considered doing in any job or assignment I've ever had). Anyway, the more experienced staff told me she would be taking over my power hour next week so she could fix it up, while I take over her power hour. So while my class is being taken care of by someone who knows how to give them structure, I want wholeheartedly to come back to them as a much better staff member. I'll probably be consuming some more of your videos as well as any other good teacher KZbinrs. Thank you so much for putting out these videos.

[@hermionej.schwartz4016]

😍 Such a good video! So timely for this time of year. Love the connection to The Odyssey. "Turn up the awesome!" I try to say good morning or hello to everyone, but don't give the sonic boom greeting. I'm adding that. BTW, my first year teaching I caught my apartment of fire making hippie popcorn for my students. Lesson learned.

[@blackwoman3839401]

We need real support. All feelings are valid. Balance is key!

[@queendelaclassroom6450]

Great vlog as usual! I like to create my own happiness by praying for the staff and students on my way to school and while I'm prepping for the day. Everyone deserves to have a good day and we never know the battle that others are facing outside of school. I was fortunate this last month to work in a school with a lot of positive people who were very welcoming to me and always asked if I needed anything. The team of teachers on the hallway where I was were so helpful in giving advice and making sure my room was unlocked when I arrived. They understood how hard it could be for long-term sub teachers and I really appreciated their help. I said Good Morning to everyone and was able to pitch in to help when another teacher needed help. For my students, I would write on the board a positive affirmation everyday and have our class motivator to read it and everyone repeat it. The kiddos really liked it and the times I forgot to write it they let me know it. Lol. The school environment felt like family and so on my last day there I gave each of the teachers who helped me a little gift to say Thank You. I did have some teachers who didn't respond but I still spoke anyway and gave a smile because it might have brightened their day. I look forward to the day when I can officially become a permanent teacher in a welcoming environment like this.

[@Manhattan966]

Loved this! I stay out of the staffroom and I must admit I try my best to stay away from negative people! On reflection I feel guilty so I am going to try some of your tips!

[@jamesdrennen7896]

Hey man, I'm gonna start student teaching this summer and your videos have given me waaaaaay more knowledge than a whole semester of education class. Keep it up, dude. This is valuable knowledge.

[@ynieto4446]

You just inspired me to walk/shuffle down the hall giving all humans a high five tomorrow! It will be fun! Spread the joy! And... pan popcorn is the best! I am blessed to work with an awesome partner teacher. We sit with kids in the cafeteria if we want to have an interesting lunch.

[@Indykitty1]

I try to give three sincere compliments to people everyday because you find what you're looking for.

[@FrankSiler]

I love this channel. Thanks for all the work and heart you put into your videos, your work, and your life.

[@CJReynolds]

I really appreciate that Frank 😊 I’m really honored to be able to be a resource for so many teachers. I never would have dreamed where all this would lead. So many great things on the horizon! Thank you!

[@FrankSiler]

For what it's worth- I'm actually not a professional teacher. I have a corporate gig as a programmer, and I taught a group of interns this summer and now I'm teaching two new hires our systems. I'm also thinking about teaching computing theory after hours- so many of my concerns aren't about classroom management and other daily concerns. I really like watching to pick up encouragement and engagement. I just wanted you to know that your influence extends beyond the traditional classroom, along with Pocketful of Primary.

[@danamarie7069]

I agree with forming your own tribe. That's been a huge savior to me!

[@CJReynolds]

+Dana Marie I’m glad you did. It is so important.

[@ArtRamboPettyQueen]

I loved this video!! I am a new subscriber and I freaking love you !!!!!!!! I teach Jr. High English and I have so many people I work with that have toxic tendencies. I always avoid the teacher’s lounge because it is always a negative experience. This video provided great suggestions to deal with or challenge the negativity!! You make me want to be a better teacher. I feel like I could be way more creative.

[@missa9146]

I create my own party! I stopped eating in the staff room because of the toxic comments; I eat in my classroom. I let comments go in one ear and out the other. I say hello to all the students and teachers. I create my own happiness!

[@jennamicheleable]

This video needs more views, especially from teachers. I love the vibes I get from your videos! Fantastic Advice. Something I just thought of to do for fun is to keep a journal of all the funny things kids say and do.

[@hiphughes]

Nice work brother man.

[@CJReynolds]

+Keith Hughes thanks Keith! Coming from you that’s some compliment. Love your work!

[@hiphughes]

Real Rap With Reynolds I think your work is stellar! If you’re ever up for a collaboration let me know. Feel free to email me at [e-mail]

[@JoshuaJohnsonOutdoors]

Ive really found your content inspirational, and have been using some of your tools that you use. Thanks so much.

[@toocoolformiddleschoolblog]

I put EVERYTHING up to 11. And buy people coffee. ;)

[@debbieleyva]

love your vlog!

[@Lpement]

Thank you so much for posting this video! I love everything you upload!

[@CJReynolds]

Thanks so much! It’s my pleasure. ☺️❤️

[@SarahWheeleeTravels]

“My apology to all the hippies in flagstaff and their Birkenstocks” “All they want to do is eat people” Heehee funniest lines

[@coomdoon]

I just got let go of a guest teaching position today. This video made me feel better about myself because I realized I'm was not a toxic teacher.

[@DigitallyYoursAdele]

"Sonic boom" hello! I love it!!! So much wisdom here. Thank you, man!!!!

[@nina.kifrawi2412]

I teach Diploma level engineering in my country. I asked for a transfer and left my previous campus when the environment became too toxic and I had become a victim of their verbal abuse. When I started teaching in the new campus, it felt like it was no different. Negativism are everywhere. However, the plus side, no-one in the new campus knows me well so I was able to stay out of the gossips. I try not to be involved with whatever drama they stirred up. If I have to be in the same room with them, I just plug in my headphones and do my paperwork. Or else, I would spend time with my kids over lunch or just chatting. I only talk to them if I need to. Another option was to visit other departments and hang out with positive people, even if they’re just the cleaning maids.

[@Niamirismom]

Your wife rocks! We pop popcorn in a pot and melt the butter like hippies too! #mrsreynoldsiscool

[@KafoopleLand]

NaturallyNiani same here hahaha

[@shockingteaches4699]

We used to...until hubby forgot to use oil in the pot and burned the bottom black! Now we either use microwave popcorn or the popcorn maker!

[@Blessed4infinity]

I love ghee on my stovetop pop corn

[@jenniferborger6631]

I partner "hi" or "good morning" with a compliment. i.e. "I like your hair" or "you look good in that color" or "nice job with the pep rally yesterday" or "you're awesome"

[@fluteplayervictoria4100]

Love your content! I start student teaching in August, and I graduate in December. Your videos get me so hype about teaching!

[@ajnightcrawler]

Thanks for this video. I'm a new teacher looking to land that job but am supplying at the moment. Whilst doing supply I have met and had to deal with some really horrible, toxic people. I tried bringing some excitement in to the classroom but got beat down for it. Feeling pretty low at the moment so this helped. Thank you

[@CJReynolds]

Adam, that happens more often than not. Keep doing the good work and focus on the kids. Those teachers will grow tired of digging you and the kids will see what it looks like to never give up.

[@ajnightcrawler]

Thanks Mr. Reynolds. I took some biscuits in for a teacher who had been particularly awful to me and they ended up actually apologizing to me. Killing them with kindness. Your videos, and just general ethos, are an inspiration

[@blciffa]

We made a breakfast and lunch bunch group that's open to everyone but we just chat about whatever, give advice, do nice things for birthdays or what not and it's just a friendly positive space. Love your advice. I do say hi to everyone but when they ignore me I feel shot down. I don't know if I'm brave enough to be loud about it but I may try that in the future.

[@maeie4]

Great advice! I try to stay away or move to another table from people that negative. Also I want to add: "What do you do when certain people who will not let your voice be heard when working with them in meeting, GLT, or in a group for collaboration. It's when they feel because of their seniority they have a bigger "creditable " voice?

[@justtired3057]

my science teacher straight up told me if my friend was doing all the work and all I’m doing was copying and I didn’t know how to react because that really hurt my feelings cause on how he was telling me to tell the truth but i LITERALLY only copied one problem because i didn’t know what to do but i did know how to do the rest. He just never bothers to see when i am doing my own work. And I also came walking home crying today 😗✌🏽and yes i did do my own work. He basically thinks I don’t do anything, like if you think I’m copying out from her work then why even sit me next to her and make me be partners with her.

[@aileenrivero5866]

Hi! Can you do a video on parent conferences? Like giving tips amd suggestions on how to deal with the most difficult ones?

[@Breckley]

"It's like too much love - right in your face!" :)

[@authorleboyd3481]

LOL Thanks so much for your videos! They always make me smile and encourage me to keep going!

[@nicutting505]

You...... are an inspiration!

[@CJReynolds]

+Nic Utting thank you. ☺️

[@MrMarinoScience]

Every once once in a while, I'll go all passive aggressive and reply to a negative person with "I hear but, bottom line for me is... I really like my kids, they're good to me, and also... I feel we are all lucky to have a job that has great benefits both medical and phylisophically" Illg often get a blank look and 99% of the time, that person wont complain to me about trivial stuff again.

[@iceradiobecausewerecool]

I've had to deal with a Teacher that has gone over the line with my grandson and a Principle that was trying to cover the Teacher. Firstly if you are in a toxic environment you should make your thoughts and feelings known to the teacher at a time when you both can talk about it. If after three times this hasn't worked then you will have to go to the Principles office and arrange a meeting with the Teacher, yourself and the Principle to discuss the issues. Now this is the key? When you are at the office it's important that you ask for a copy of the Schools procedures on Teacher behaviour as well as penalties if Teacher procedures are broken. Go through the procedures before your meeting and ensure that what you have an issue with is a procedure that has been broken by the Teacher. If there is a definite break-in procedure discuss the procedure with the Teacher and Principle. Note: at all times you must not let the Principle or Teacher let in that you know the procedures so then you can see if they are working together to cover each other. It's similar to holding trump cards. Get them to admit it first, then let them know its a break-in procedure. The ball is all in your court after that.

[@whitedandelion3074]

After having read some of the comments, I am amazed at how many of us work in an environment where many teachers are toxic. I too stay away from them, and prefer to eat lunch in my car, or alone, or with the very few nice people that work there. It is just too loud in the teacher's room, they talk behind everyone's backs and are just nasty. It's not easy to work in a place like that, believe me. Of course the students that are nice, funny, active in class and eager to learn, is what I focus on.

[@kristenrainey3376]

How do you choose which students to let eat with you? I know you kind of went into detail, but I guess to more explicitly state my question: Do students get asked each time specifically to eat in your classroom or do you re-invite them each time? Also, how often do you eat with students? I love the idea of doing this because I think that building relationships with students is important, I am just curious as to how you shake up the group of students you have each time and how you choose which students to invite. I know that it is a general, sometimes unspoken rule important to "never play favorites" as well, which is another reason I am asking.

[@CJReynolds]

Most of the same kids eat with me everyday. There are about 20-30 of them. Those Students are encouraged to bring others in if they think they need someone to talk to or if they see someone sitting alone in the lunch hall. Aside from that I ask certain kids that I think need some one on one time to eat with us as well. I eat with the kids twice a day. We have three lunch period and I eat with them for 2 of them. I teach during the third, but even during that period there are 5-10 kids that just hang in the back of my room.

[@ParisLifeandCo]

Still planting my roots where I am. Definitely just avoiding the weirdos for now, surrounding myself with winners

[@Indykitty1]

What was the thing that you weren't able to talk about last week? You are great.

[@CJReynolds]

+Indykitty1 the weekly vlog will be out this evening and it will be all about that. Thanks for always watching!!!

[@juliesunnydaze]

Be kind and cordial to all but not a close friend to the big complainers. Always ask to find a solution.

[@thurayah.2295]

I just respect you man 🙏🙏

[@audreynowak]

I finally found someone who gets it! Thank you!!

[@mandyharp8109]

I don't have anything about teachers, but I have students write on a post-it note one positive thing they noticed each day. I read them out loud but I don't read the names of who wrote it unless they write on the post-it that they want me to.

[@TheUrbanFamily1]

fab! love it! Feeling inspired as usual!

[@adamalesbrook8795]

I've started to combat this issue head-on. A fellow teacher and I observe others during our prep once a week. We've started to focus on the positive and then we leave a certificate of appreciation in their mailbox for the positive characteristic we thought they demonstrated well. I've also started to share "wholesome memes" with co-workers and students through e-mail and google classroom. Also, have you read the Tao of Pooh? It's a great quick read!

[@CJReynolds]

I havent read it but I’ll check it out now. I love the meme idea. Like a lot!! Great work Teach!!!

[@happyblackbird8]

Ha! I was born in Flagstaff. I don't know how you know that, but it's true!! 😂

[@krys8913]

im in 11th grade right now andn i have a really confusing teacher...so i dont know if shes toxic all i know is that everytime after her class i feel so emotionally sick and mentally drained...like today one of my classmates had a presentation and she complained how it was SOOOOO BORING which is yea true, she also added the presentation should make us feel alive, so the presentors made some silly jokes and everyone laughed cuz yea it a silly joke that connects with the lesson..then she got mad??? like really really upset that we think everything is joke??? it was very confusing !?! its okay if shes lie that as a person but as my teacher i feel so belittled even if her scolding isnt towards me, again i always feel so sick emotionally after her class i always either want to cry and sleep after...

[@meganramsey1198]

So funny. I’m from & still live in Arizona. I know a lot of hippies live in Flag but had no idea that was known by random teachers in Pennsylvania. 😂 I love our hippies!

[@johnnyspeedy1344]

That one dislike on this video is the toxic teacher who probably has horrible classroom management

[@kelsiedrown475]

I needed this today

[@ohalliplease]

Great video!! Love it! Keep it up Reynolds :)

[@tracy_in_primary]

Ha - laughed at the popcorn. I'm no hippie, but I pop it the old fashioned way (my sweet and salty popcorn recipe is a huge hit, btw!), because who wants their kitchen overflowing with 10,000 gadgets when a pot will do? Not me! #TeamMrsReynolds I assume the toxic people's problem is them, not me, so I just treat them the way I would if it was anyone else. If I would greet someone else with joy and bubbliness, that's how I treat the toxic people too. They hate it, but oh well. They got a hit of sunshine on them to bust away some of the grunge.

[@CJReynolds]

+Tracy's Primary Pandemonium Love the “hit of sunshine” ☺️☺️☺️ great work Tracey!!

[@spencerhorne3564]

Love this! Great advice!

[@keligsp8962]

Yes energy! Steeeve love it! Pop away😂

[@judilopez1811]

I just want to say you're awesome! I listen to you all the time. I hope I can be half as good as you are. You make it look so easy, but it's not. Can you give suggestions for restroom breaks. It's an odd request, but I'm worried about this issue if I really need to go in the middle of class....thx!

[@bj-vd2to]

Damn! I was thinking this will teach me how to deal with toxic colleagues; hearing you I am turning into the toxic whiner teach! DAMN, better snap out of it. Funnily enough I started super positive which many people resented, I still am super positive with kids. I will work on not getting sucked into the cycle of avoiding unfriendly staff, who do not answer greetings. Will definitely work on going back to being my authentic self. I have had teachers that have eventually just gave up, and act decently, after years of my not reacting to them and continuing to be myself and still greet positively and help them when I didn't have to...

[@CJReynolds]

That’s an incredible outlook and really great self awareness. My best to you this year. If I can ever help with anything please let me know✌🏽

[@A1EyeDCatppn]

I used to do a tour with a big bag of lollipops around staff offices and leave a lollipop on their desk... particularly around the end of the week or after a hard day...