The Breakup: Separating Disruptive Girls

It happened without warning–when they least expected it–on a bright Tuesday afternoon. It was a shock because the relationship had been so strong: the bonds so close. Yet, it was hard to deny that the warning signs had been there all along. Today, I witnessed an emotional breakup between seven girls.

It was a beautiful sight.

These girls had come to class everyday expecting to do little to no work. Instead, they spent their time gossiping, teasing the boys, and discussing Mexican heart-throbs. Normally, I would not have bothered to deal with them (in fact I had not in the past) because I thought it would be too much trouble to break up such a tight-knit group. Once they were broken up, I reasoned, they would hiss, scream, and accuse me of murder. Moreover, I did not want to spend the rest of the period taking requests for reunification.

Today, however, I could not deal with their poor attitudes and high-pitched, over-exaggerated laughter. Considering I had to administer a test, it was time to end their relationship.

“Okay, we have a test today. I need everyone to move.”

“No, we don’t have to because Ms. X lets us sit together when we take tests.”

“I am not Ms. X and I said move. Now!” My tone was stern and I refused to take “no” for an answer. I would have threatened them with a trip to the office but they gave way. Each mumbled something crude under their breath as they shuffled away. Some words may have been in Spanish, but their tone made it clear they were not very happy with me. Frankly, I could not care less.

Over the course of the next thirty minutes, the class completed the test and there were (surprisingly) no interruptions. The loudest part of the class had been broken and the rest could now work in peace. Sure, the breakup was messy at first but it was well worth it–for me and the rest of the class. Although I will probably let them sit together next time, I will never again hesitate to break them up. After all, they are better off alone.