Problem Student:

Confronting non-conformity in the class

Klaus is not like others in class

He knows the answers to questions
but seldom speaks –

Dreamily he often gazes out windows
and smiles at passing clouds

And why does Klaus
often write in foreign languages
which his peers cannot read?

When talking of democracy
this kid gets peeved

When modern history is discussed
he's invariably high-keyed

Recently when asked about his career plans
he vigorously replied,
"An eco-terrorist sounds grand!"

Though outwardly polite
I sense a palatable anger inside

Is it because Klaus dwells in an urban cage?
Or his single mother toils at minimum wage?
Or his family is from a war-torn place?
Or do the medications he takes influence his brain?

What should I do with pupils like Klaus?
Should I pretend no problems exist
and everything will work out?

Liao:	Notice how some kids become easily labeled 'problem students'?
Tim:	More often than not the 'problem' is in the system rather than the student.
Satoru:	Nearly all systems have self-norming tendencies: there are subtle mathematical laws at work. Some will pass and others invariably be left behind.
Tim:	Too bad – so much human potential is wasted.
Liao:	Well, isn't the system designed to turn most folks into McDonalized consumers?
Tim:	Yeah. At that it does a smashing job . . .