Imagine this situation: You're hanging at the local pool, playing some cards and doing a nice job of keeping within eyeshot of the hot lifeguard, when a tall, dark shadow is cast on your pile of kings and queens. Nope, it's not a raincloud; it's Ms. G, your math teacher from last year. What do you do? Run, hide, cover yourself with a beach towel and hope that she thinks you're a pile of dirty laundry?
A couple of months ago, we gave you some tips for handling out-of-school-teacher sightings. And while those are really helpful, they don't address the unique awkwardness of running into your teacher when she or he is wearing goggles. And a nose plug. And a swimsuit. It's a sight that can send a poor, helpless teen into shock, and we want you to be prepared. So here are some potential run-in locations and the best (read: FASTEST) way out:
The Pool
Ms. G: Ahhh, I see you're keeping up with your computation skills. Pop quiz: What's the value of a jack if aces are low?
You: Uhh...
Ms. G: I'm just teasing. I wouldn't want to ruin your summer with thoughts of algebra and equations and tests. Just about to dip in for a few laps. You kids gonna be here later? I'd love to join you for a game of hearts!
You (confidently and with no hesitation): That would be awesome! The only thing is, we don't play hearts, we play a game called Name Your Age where we go around the circle trying to lay cards that add up to our age in months and the first person to hit the number exactly...
Ms. G: Oh, well, on second thought, I think I may just read a book.
You: All right. Well, if you change your mind, we'll be here!
As soon as you mention "age in months," your teacher will recoil in fear and begin backing away. Nice work!
The Movie Theater
Mr. Albert (sneaking up behind you at the concessions stand): Boo! Bet you didn't plan on seeing me here, did'ja? Ha! Well, what are you kids seeing tonight? Nothing R-rated, I hope, 'cause I know all your parents' phone numbers! (laughs jovially—or is it evilly?)
You: Nope. We're just about to head out.
Mr. Albert: Awww, that's too bad. I was hoping I could "hang" with you kids for the rest of the night. Guess I'll have to find someone else to chat with during the movie. See you in the fall!
As you walk towards the exit, watch to see what theater Mr. Albert enters. Enter any theater but that one. You should be in the clear.
Out to Dinner with Your Family
*Note: This is a tough situation, because your parents will want to chat with your teacher. They'll start talking about you as if you're not there as you sit just a few feet away, listening while they discuss your academic strengths and weaknesses.
Ms. Roberts: What a nice surprise! I haven't seen you since the last round of parent/teacher conferences. It's been months!
Your mom: How's your summer been? Have you been getting to enjoy some time away from the students?
Ms. Roberts: I have. Although I really enjoyed having Allison in my class. She always makes such wonderful contributions to our discussions. Our last unit on The Old Man and The Sea seemed to really spark some fresh thinking for her.
Your mom: Really? She never mentioned that book to me...
You ("accidentally" knocking over your water glass, spilling the entire contents on your lap): Oh man! I have to excuse myself and go grab some paper towels in the bathroom.
On your way to the bathroom, stop a restaurant employee and tell him that the people standing next to that table over there (the one where you're sitting) aren't sure where they're supposed to sit. By the time you get back from drying your pants, your teacher will be long gone.
So, have you had an awkward summer run-in with a teacher? Any tips for dodging the situation?
By: Katie_Rolnick
Topics: Advice
Tags: teachers
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