I did it all for the cookie

I am pretty straightofward with my students. I always tell them what's going on. Every year, they know who my evaluator is, and that I would prefer it if they were well behaved whenever that person (or any other adult, really) enters my classroom. When they're good, it makes me happy, and when I am happy, their lives as students are considerably easier. This is simple, but they seem to appreciate the honesty. It makes them feel like they're on my team, in a way.

With that behavior pattern established after years of teaching, the new evaluation system presented me with an opportunity to shed a little light on the changed process. I told them I was up for a bigger deal this year. I told them when my ten day window would be for my three-person formal evaluation. I even asked them to be nice if they happened to be the class during which that evaluation occurred.

Well, it occurred today. Fifth period, to be precise. Those kids were really good. Almost too good. I even commented on it. You guys are being so nice today. Is it because we have guests?

I think it went well. Of course, I am riddled with self-doubt and I'm second-guessing my every move. But it's done. No more waiting for Godot. Now, I'm in my kitchen. I am making a very nice batch of cookies for that class as a thank you. It's the least I can do. 

Back when I won the STEM award eight years ago, I made treats for the kids who knocked it out of the park for me. Today, I'm making more treats. Seems like the thing to do...