Congratulations Jennifer! Hope you are enjoying your teaching. Is it in the
classroom? What sort of age group?

"when they actually show up... whatever happened to courtesy?"
Alas this is why I do no private teaching now. Most were okay but some
really did take advantage. Cancelling at the very last minute and sometimes
not showing up at all. Don't they realise you are trying to make a living
and keep yourself watered, fed and with a roof over your head. It used to
annoy me so much!! In a strange kind of way, it's reassuring to know it
happens in your part of the world too. It's difficult not to believe that
it's a personal thing. I found I had to be blunt and spell it out to
parents. (or the few adults that were un-courteous).

I once had a student 'poached' by a newcomer to the area. I wasn't bothered
really because it was one that rarely came and never gave notice and I
always had to bill for payment!! The Newcomer phoned to complain to me that
I should have told them this student was like that (She was on her own and
had no other income) and what was I thinking of letting them change to her!!
Some folks!!

I try at school as well to get the students to communicate if they can't
manage. Okay, so you are there anyway but it doesn't harm to teach some
basic manners!!

Ah well off my soap box for now. I should be able to email more often so
keep chatting people!!

Cheers
Carole