Have you ever been really hurt by a student? I work hard not to pay attention and let things brush off, but I recently heard that someone said I was the worst teacher in the school and I struggle with imposter syndrome and low confidence and I really can't figure out if they're right or not and it just has me spinning. Any advice for getting my mind right about it?

Oh boy you are at the high school level and I cannot stress enough that you cannot take teenagers personally. I would revisit your skills another time and ask for input from colleagues or any reviews that you get and keep that far away from what this student said. If they get bad grades they're mad at you, if they get good grades they're showing off, if they're medium they're trying to get social currency, blah blah. There are tens of reasons for them to say it, and it's unlikely it's the one reason you fear.

Here’s my advice…You are the mature adult in the room. You are the one that enforces rules and sets curriculum. Students aren’t going to like some of the rules you have, but keep in mind, you are the adult with a responsibility to all of the students to run a organized classroom. If you’re kind to all the students, put the feelings of betrayal from this student away and know you’re doing the job you were hired for. Your students don’t need more friends. They need an adult in the room.

I’m not trying to be harsh, but may I ask how long you’ve been teaching. This is something a young teacher would worry about. Kids will say anything that makes them appear in charge. Don’t react to this. I would not discuss this with my colleagues. It’s a rookie move. Just move on an offer the best experience you can.

The kids talk/complain about other teachers to me (things like "That lady makes me show my work" (math) so I am 100% sure they complain about me to other teachers.
Something like that I would probably say "You might be right. Our staff is so amazing that I might be the worst teacher in the school. And the crazy thing is that if I were at another school, I would be the best teacher at the school. That's how good all the teachers here are.*

Remember if you’re feeling unsure of yourself or if you are struggling, some kids are very skilled at picking up on that energy and using that vulnerability to their advantage (which might be for a quick laugh/a joke at your expense).
Try to avoid power struggles at all cost- it can get ugly fast. Some kids subconsciously look for those power struggles, they want control over their environment and will turn about anything into a lose- lose proposition.

Lots of times the “worst” ones are the ones holding them accountable so give yourself a pat on the back. Deep inside they respect you for it.

They are NOT TO BE TRUSTED.....EVER! You are just as likely to be thrown under the bus as one of their peers.

I had a student tell me I “should get over it” when I returned from bereavement absence for my father’s death. Took my breathe away. I was sickened for the rest of the year teaching him. Later that same year when he discussed his suicide I realized he was a screwed up kid. As a mandated reporter I reported it, and learned what a disturbed kid he was. Helped me know that comment was from him and his issues and not about me.

Don’t worry about it, I did a new seating chart and a student told me “this is why no one likes you”. My response was “ I don’t care”. 🤣

😂😂 I usually reply with, well, I’ve already graduated…

I am approaching the beginning of the school year with more anxiety than ever. Last year ended horribly. I no longer feel emotionally safe at my school site. My admins are great, teachers wonderful and that is where it ends. Loved my community, but no more.

If he was a better student, you could be a “better” teacher!😉 You can’t win them all!

I has to look up ‘imposter syndrome’ to be quite honest.

It doesn’t matter what you do. You can be great. You can be terrible. There will always be someone that thinks you’re the worst teacher ever, particularly if you have standards and stick them. There is no such things as imposters in teaching. If you show up and your best (and note that huye best is but the same every day) to deliver the content, then you’re doing your job. There is always room for improvement, even for the best of the best.
Students are going to love you and hate you and everything in between. I agree with those that said you can’t take it personally. Doesn’t mean you’re feelings won’t get hurt but if they can send you into a spiral, you’re giving them too much power. 99% of the time their feelings towards you or your class have nothing to do with you and everything tondi with them and their lives/psyche.
You’ve got this. Hugh school is tough. Education is a morass of crap. Look for the roses that have leave to blossom in the shit and leave the rest for those who like to wallow in it. 🤷🏾‍♀️ Good luck! I’m open to chat whenever.

High school students are notorious for blaming the teacher for their failings. Do not take it personally. Tomorrow that same student will come in acting like your best friend.
Most teachers suffer from imposter syndrome at some point in time. Have faith in yourself.