Last January 5, 2025, marked my first anniversary of teaching here in Grants, New Mexico. The same day a year ago has become a core memory for me - one I’ll keep replaying in my mind until I’m old and gray. The noise after the first bell, as students moved through the hallways to their classes, was much louder in real life than it ever seemed in the movies. Most students were dressed in black, and I thought, This is my crowd. Some walked alone, quiet as the morning before coffee (a perfect reflection of me), while others chatted nonstop at full volume - me at home with my kids.
As a first-timer in middle school, after spending 11 years teaching high school and 14 years teaching college in the Philippines, I was stepping onto unfamiliar ground. The thought of adjusting my teaching style to fit the energy and emotions of younger learners buzzed my nerves. I may have been putting on a confident facade, but beneath the surface, I was dead anxious. How was I going to survive this?
First off, why is it called “middle” school? It’s the middle ground between elementary and high school, sure. But isn’t it just elementary part two? Middle. That word has taken on a whole new meaning for me now. With the power of three things, I’d say it has taught me to communicate better, build connections, and embrace humor.
One time, while on duty in the courtyard, I noticed a group of boys getting too rowdy and physical. Being bilingual, and with English as a second language that’s admittedly a little too formal, the first word I blurted out was, “Disengage!” Immediately, I laughed at myself, picturing a rocket ship about to launch. Later, I learned from my instructional coach that the phrase I really needed was, “Break it up!” This simple imperative sentence gave me so much power, and the more I say it, the more I feel students obey me. My coach and I even spent a whole hour talking about language and other gems like “Eyes upfront,” “Knock it off,” and “Keep it down.”
I also started paying close attention to how my students speak and why they are always so happy chatting away whenever they can. Then it hit me. There’s one portal I haven’t opened all along, one that holds the gateway to all three goals (drumroll): Gen Z slang.
Since then, I’ve come up with my own phrases for classroom management. Instead of saying, “Keep quiet,” I might say, “Your yapping festival ends in 3, 2, 1.” When students surprise me with their attitude, I’ll say, “I’m not losing my aura today!” When they raise their hands during an intense discussion only to ask, “Can I go to the bathroom?” I reply with, “Bruh, what the sigma?” It gets a laugh and, more importantly, it gets results. I think they appreciate that I’m trying, and they enjoy having something to laugh about.
In adult life, the same tips apply. Adapting your communication style can establish professional relationships, nurture friendships, and even improve family dynamics. It makes sense to speak the language of those you want to connect with, whether it’s Gen Z slang, academic jargon, or the quiet language of a family member.
As I reflect on my first year, I realize that life is a middle school. It is awkward, chaotic, and often very challenging, but it’s also full of laughter, growth, and fun lessons. It’s not purgatory, though it might feel that way on certain days! It is an important liminal moment of paying attention where one learns to adjust and find joy in engaging.
So, here’s my advice: stay sigma and keep biggin’ up! And if you happen to bump into one of these amazing souls, just ask, “What’s more massive than middle school?” Either you’ll find yourself yapping away or immensely boosting your aura points to a million, no cap!