Wants...I can identify with the nature of students these days. I am not, nor have I ever been a "popular" teacher, but since I teach middle school, evaluations aren't a factor. I do my job, showing compassion and insight, encouraging those who show talent.

I've noticed that in the college setting, a change in the nature of the teachers there, very markedly, since we DO have to post evaluations at the end of each class period. I feel certain this is because of the evaluations, which are given more weight than in earlier times.
I am speaking from exposure to the same professors over a 10 year period of time.

I think you have maintained your standards while the standards in the college setting have declined to accomodate students' opinions.

This past school year was the hardest I've ever experienced, and I left for the summer vacation thinking I should seek a non-teaching job. There is no recourse for discipline, to the point that one can't have a class. At my age, though, I don't know what else I could do!

I do empathize with you. I also respect you.
Love,
patty