Teaching religious ed — dilemma

[dew517]

For several years we had a multi-generational program in our Church that simply didn’t work. The congregation did not like it. We have gone back to a traditional program based on grade levels for the kids. That too had been a struggle as we lure back the kids. In addition, many former teachers chose not to return.

My son’s group - 7th & 8th grade- did not have a teacher and I finally volunteered. We began using an old book that I truthfully have found too young for them and filled games, songs that were not well received. I have been taking the topic, researching various places and creating an outline to use for discussion. It actually has worked quite well and created some interesting discussions.

Now my problem — recently the parish priest has been joining my class along with his 2 confirmation class boys. He then takes over.

I am frustrated that I put so much time and effort into a class only to have it derailed. I have tried to politely retake the reins but met limited success. I politely mentioned that I had a plan for my students and he sort of said well his students needed this topic too.

my question — Do I flat out say there is no point in me doing this work and sitting there for 45 minutes if he wants to run the show? He might as well combine the classes and put me out of my misery.

Or is that rude. Am I too impatient? I am just so frustrated. I work hard to create a thoughtful and thought provoking program and half of it doesn’t get covered. He is a great talker who is often off topic. Last night one of his boys actually fell asleep.

I would appreciate thoughts or suggestions.

 

[1ke]

my question — Do I flat out say there is no point in me doing this work and sitting there for 45 minutes if he wants to run the show? He might as well combine the classes and put me out of my misery.

I would have a frank conversation with him and tell him that if he wants you to teach 7th & 8th grade then he needs to respect your class time and your lesson plans.

If he does not want you to teach, or is not going to respect your class time, you will be happy to bow out and he can teach all of the kids.

Or is that rude. Am I too impatient? I am just so frustrated. I work hard to create a thoughtful and thought provoking program and half of it doesn’t get covered.

No. It is not rude. He either respects your boundaries or he doesn’t. If he doesn’t, then stop teaching, pull your kid out and teach him at home.

 

[idrum677]

I’ve been in your shoes before except at the time I was supposedly in charge of the entire grade 7-9 program but was overuled at everything I tried to do. Some pastors have to have their hands in everything much like mine. I won’t get into the entire ordeal but you can look up my threads from about a year ago for more detail

Its not easy, espicially when there’s friction between you and someone you look to for spiritual guidence.

I’ll pray for you.

 

[Appleby]

I would have a frank conversation with him and tell him that if he wants you to teach 7th & 8th grade then he needs to respect your class time and your lesson plans.

If he does not want you to teach, or is not going to respect your class time, you will be happy to bow out and he can teach all of the kids.

No. It is not rude. He either respects your boundaries or he doesn’t. If he doesn’t, then stop teaching, pull your kid out and teach him at home.

I agree with this. I would politely suggest that it’s Sydney or the Bush – either he runs the class or you do, and you would be happy with either outcome, but that too many cooks spoil the risotto. If you choose to leave it in his hands, then make a clean break and don’t say another word about it.

 

[leonie]

I understand your frustration, but I would be so pleased to have a priest (as long as he is faithful to Church teachings) instructing my middle schooler. It seems like they get so little interaction with priests these days…