An excellent teacher once reminded me that “behavior is a language.” I don’t share this to minimize your challenges because it is hard to be in your position. I share it because I want you to know this isn’t your fault, nor is it a reflection on you as a teacher. The fact that you’re reaching out and asking for support shows that you are exactly the kind of teacher every child needs—one who cares enough to keep showing up, even when you don’t have all the answers.

I encourage you to set up a time to meet with your principal. Be prepared to share the strategies you’ve already tried, and ask for support in both new approaches and consistent follow-through. It might be hard, but I encourage you to be open to help, even if it doesn’t look like what you expected. Sometimes, the most unexpected support brings the biggest breakthroughs.

And while you’re waiting to see progress, hold fast to this: your persistence and consistency matter. As Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Thank you for showing up for this student, your classroom, and yourself.

Have you ever had a season where a student’s behavior left you drained and discouraged? What helped you keep perspective and keep going? 

Share your wisdom in the comments—your story might be the encouragement another teacher needs today.

P.S. Remember that Christian Educators has a team of former public school superintendents who will walk you through situations just like this, and support you with biblical wisdom and prayer. If you find yourself in a situation like this, I encourage you to reach out.