How to handle boss bullies.

While in your classroom:

You might be told that you didn't do what you did or you might be told that you did something you most certainly wouldn't and didn't do.

During your lesson:

You may assert what you believe to be a known fact, one that is backed up by the Center for Disease Control or by reading the transcripts or by directly quoting a book you are holding in your hand and from which you are reading at that very moment, and you might be told that you are wrong.

During a lesson:

You might do everything right and to the very best of your ability, and you may have quantifiable proof of your effectiveness and proof of your ability to replicate this success, and you still might be told that because of some tiny insignificant change in how you approach their curriculumyou will not get your raise.

These things—and more— have happened to me.

Your fellow teachers will have stories of their own, many waaaay worse than mine.

Here are some tips for handling such situations:

1. Keep your wits about you. Do your job well, to the best of your ability everyday. Be on time, smell good, and let your light shine. It's hard for even the most cantankerous administrator to resist.
2. But sometimes Jerks are Gonna Jerk so don't be the jerk. You're new; stay curious. Remain adventurous. Remember why you became a musician and why you're becoming a teacher. Let that feeling be the reigning attitude in the room. Connect with other teachers and share your stories.
3. Don't share your stories about your workplace at your workplace. Yeah, no, don't do that.While at your workplace, your attitude is it is the greatest place on earth and you're grateful for the opportunity to share your love of music. Outside and away from the workplace, you can share with your close friends and family that you might have landed in the basement of Hell. Don't say that at work.

As a teacher and a punk rocker (even if you play Chopin), you want to be more open and direct. It's natural.

And there may be places where you can teach where you can be that relaxed. But for the most part…um…no.

Keep your wits about you. Don't be a jerk. Stay focused on the task.

You got this.