I am a teacher in a relatively large (2000+) suburban high school. For the most part, I do love what I do as I work fairly well with teens, understand a lot of their issues, often enjoy their sense of humor and basically feel like they do learn a fair amount in my class. But, I must say, I am completely sick and tired of students turning in late assignments followed by a litany of excuses!

Now, please understand, I am not new at this (I've been teaching close to 10 years), so I have learned a great deal about altering my expectations when it comes to teens. I know they have a lot on their plates, and I have always believed in modeling a sense of mutual respect. But when I routinely exhibit a respect for them and their needs, yet get met with a barrage of creative storytelling, it's hard to continue thinking that I can be understanding.

I don't want to think that my students are lying to me, but sometimes it's impossible not to.

How do I decipher the truth about illness, family issues, computers breaking down, etc.? When should I give in? When shouldn't I?