Today was an odd day, filled with unexpected tension that left me both reflective and drained. Since starting my teaching job in August 2022, I’ve been fortunate to work alongside an incredible team, many of whom I knew from the past. Reuniting with them in this shared professional space has been a rewarding experience. However, today tested the harmony I thought we had.

The conflict arose over what seemed like a simple matter: a student emailed us to inform that he would be absent for the week. Wanting to acknowledge the student’s effort to communicate, I promptly responded to the group email, thanking him and updating the attendance in PowerSchool. I believed this was a helpful and responsible action. However, one of my colleagues felt differently. He was visibly upset that I had responded instead of allowing him to handle the communication directly with the student.

Our perspectives clashed sharply. He values one-on-one communication to build rapport with students, especially those with challenging attitudes. I understood his point, recognizing his desire to foster a stronger connection with this student. However, from my standpoint, attendance is a collective responsibility, and students should be encouraged to communicate with all their teachers when it pertains to logistical matters.

As the discussion escalated, I felt a surge of frustration. My mind raced with conflicting emotions, but I whispered to myself, “You can do better. Do not yell. Do not shout. Keep it under control.” I focused on staying calm, choosing my words carefully. I asked him gently, “What exactly triggered you?” He mentioned the swift response to the email over the weekend as the source of his frustration.

I reiterated my intentions, emphasizing that my quick reply was meant to support both the student and our administrative duties. I even apologized if my actions had unintentionally triggered him, though part of me wondered why he didn’t reciprocate with an apology for his confrontational tone. Despite this, I didn’t dwell on it. Instead, I leaned into empathy, reaffirming that my goal was to ensure smooth communication and accurate attendance records.

Teacher kept saying, “I’m not mad,” and I responded, “Okay, I understand,” as we continued discussing and explaining our perspectives again. Eventually, realizing the conversation was going in circles, I decided to align with his preference to maintain peace. “Okay,” I said, conceding to his approach to reduce friction. I felt my energy deplete, the emotional toll of the exchange lingering. As I glanced at the time, I realized I was late for my therapy session, having spent 20 minutes on this heated debate.

I mentioned my session, and he finally offered a brief apology for the time lost. I managed a polite smile, not out of obligation but as a gesture of closure. Walking away, I reflected on the encounter. It wasn’t just about an email or a student’s absence; it was about navigating professional relationships, managing emotional triggers, and choosing empathy over ego. Today taught me that even in conflict, there’s an opportunity to grow—to practice patience, to communicate with intention, and to preserve one’s peace amidst discord.

What do you think about this situation? How would you have handled it differently, or do you believe the approach I took was effective? I’d love to hear your thoughts and reflections.