Plan to today three days work on Tuesday. Most new teachers finish the work early and you need to keep the children busy. Get the attitude across that you all have a lot of work to do.

Consider changing seats. You may want to move the troublemakers seats to the front of the room. Do not, however, put them together.

Go to the school today. if you possibly can. Speak to the teachers in your group and find out what they are doing and why the other teacher left. It may be a good idea to introduce yourself to the class or have someone introduce you. See if you can obtain the names of the children in your class and find out something about them. While you are there see the payroll secretary and find out what forms you need to complete and ask about personnel questions if you have any. See if your school has a mentoring program. It is very likely that all or almost all of the teachers in your group have a common lunch period. Eat lunch with them if you can. Be friendly. Hopefully at least one and probably more teachers will volunteer to help you. Gladly accept all offers.Teachers in urban schools tend to be helpful and friendly to each other.

Good luck.

There is probably nothing in place for you. (at least plan that this is the case) So bring your desk supplies, and bring a plan for lessons. Sit down over the weekend, and plan what they will be doing for the next couple of weeks. assume that they have done nothing for the first week. Read Harry Wong, and put your procedures into play on your first day. Go in after school today, take a look at the room, and talk to the department chair. perhaps spend tuesday with a quick get to know you assignment.

The good news:

You have the whole year with them.

I am also white while the majority 99% of the students are black. You need to be tough…they will try to test you! GOOD LUCK