We have to do duty at our school. I know some schools hire people to do it but at our school, we, the staff, do it. I don't mind. Even though it is hotter than Hades this time of year, it gets me out of the building and talking to kids in a relaxed environment. I begin to recognize students and which students are going to cause problems so I know where to watch during my duty time. At our district, teachers have always had to do the duties. Even in the old days when we had aides up the wazoo.
What really bugs me? Teachers who don't think duty is important. They show up late or not at all. Do they not understand that if a dreadful accident happens when they are not there, that they can be held accountable? Another thing is when teachers stand around together and talk instead of watching the playground. They should not be doing anything but watching the kids. The safety of the kids is important. We should be watching for problems.
We have had fights break out on the playground and the teachers on duty did not even see it. One kids was kicked in the privates and it literally broke his balls and there wasn't a teacher watching. The kid required surgery and several teachers were written up. They really didn't seem to care.
Rules for Duty:
1. Do not stand in groups. Separate from others around the play areas and keep your eyes peeled.
2. Don't talk to others. I even remind students I am on duty and cannot chat. I am available at other times to talk. I hang around when I am not on duty and talk to them.
3. Be aware of what is going on. Walk around the play area and LISTEN! We had kids using bad language and no one was doing anything about it until I changed my duty station and walked around close to their game and listened. It was way better then.
4. Understand that if you are supposed to be on duty, you MUST be there and aware of your area ON TIME. Teachers have been sued, fired, reprimanded for this.
It is your Professional responsibility to be where you are needed, on time and awake.
Have a great year.