The teachers’ lounge should be considered a safe space (if you still have one). It’s a place you can share successes and complaints with your fellow teachers. But don’t get too comfortable. No one is free from judgement when these phrases are uttered...

1. “But, they’re always so well-behaved for me.”
   A colleague comes in from a tough lesson. Just as they’re recounting the story of how Billie ripped down yet another classroom poster, you pipe up with this choice comment. Now is not the time to humblebrag. Or brag.
   
   
2. “The principal just wanted to give me a pat on the back for my students’ progress.”
   Hit your performance targets already, have you? Oh, that’s just dandy. Meanwhile, the rest of us are running around in a state of panic.
   
   
3. “I’m going to Coachella.” 
   Woah, stop right there! You’re a teacher. How on earth do you have the time or the energy for shenanigans like that?
   
   
4. “I never work in the evenings or weekends, I don’t know what you’re complaining about.”
   Any teacher who utters these words is a liar. And nobody wants to be friends with a liar.
   
   
5. “I hate kids.” 
   Hmmm...maybe the school counselor could spare a minute for you?
   
   

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