While teaching 7th Grade Special Education at Henry County Middle School (2-05)

No matter the place, middle school students never cease to amaze—and even disturb—me with their actions and tales. Fred is an awkwardly large 12 year old. He’s a 7th grader in my special ed. science class, a young man who clearly isn’t comfortable in his own skin. He has dark, deep set eyes that exude melancholy and frustration at almost all times, and “I don’t know” is his favorite phrase. Anyway, he came in to class one morning somewhat giddy. There was a buzz amongst the 8 students in the group about Fred. And he looked happy. At the end of class, Fred confided in me and told me the scoop. “Mr. Barnwell, you want to know why I need a job?”

“Sure Fred.”

“Well, my ex-girlfriend is having a baby.” When he said this, I somehow avoided the jaw-drop and countless scenarios ran through my mind. It was possible the child was his, but here is a kid who apparently can’t think (or plays uber-numb all of the time). I had told a friend Fred was an overgrown 7th grader with marginal motor skills and a penchant for threatening to punch people in the face and kill them.

“Fred, I hope you’re not the father,” I said.

“No, we didn’t do nothin’.” Phewww, a massive relief. But still, why the heck would he want to take responsibility?

“Fred, do you realize that being a parent is probably the most important and toughest things you’ll ever do in your life?”

“I think it’d be fun to be a father,” he replied. Oh my friggin’ gosh. This didn’t just come out of his mouth.

“Well Fred, I think it’s unfortunate this girl is having a child so young, but it’s not your responsibility. It is thoughtful for you to think of her.” Bell rings, and Fred leaves. It is the one day of the semester when he seems most excited by life and, strangely enough, recognized by his peers in a somewhat positive light.