In the meantime, I've been working, goofing off, and talking to other faculty while I wait for her [to wake up? Yes, I know it is noon, but we are talking about Jac].
Some school thoughts:
What do you do when: a student signs all his papers "Yours truly"; uses adjectives in his paper to describe you like, "wonderful", "fantastic", and "brilliant"; and sometimes looks at you with puppy eyes? I am still trying to figure that out.
What do you do when another faculty member (this is the fifth) challenges your presence in a room because they believe you're either a confused student or a kid that gets a thrill from being somewhere they're not supposed to be? So far I just smile as sweetly as possible and tell them what class I instruct. Not all of them believe me, though. Perhaps I should wear my contract around my neck?
I do have one personal success as far as dealing with awkward situations. I was always uncertain how I would behave if I was unliked. I want a good rapport with my students, because I feel that can be an important factor in a student's investment in a class. However, I also just have an overwhelming desire to be liked sometimes, so it's not just about the students' success. Anyway, I am happy to report that nasty looks, personal comments, and talking about unfair grades (in hoarse whispers during class time) have only been reprimanded because they are unprofessional. Unexpectedly, and fortunately, they have not phased me on a personal level.
Overall, teaching at a community college has been a rewarding experience. I use the perfect tense because we only have two weeks left, and I feel that I've gotten from this experience all that I hoped to and more - I don't think it's something I will continue to do next semester. Teaching however, I hope to do forever, so it's time to find a new venue!