I really enjoyed reading the text "Fires in the Bathroom" because it gave me insight on how students think and respond to styles and personalities in teaching. I would recommend Fires to anyone who is beginning their teacher career, or participating in a teacher certification program such as myself. Personally, Fires as changed my views on student teacher relationships, expectations of students, and how difficult and challenging the field of education can be not only for the educators, but the students as well.
For example, at the beginning of the semester I believed in hard deadlines. Meaning that if an assignment was not turned in at the due date, that student would receive a 0 in the grade book. However, my views on grading have changed. This may or may not be directly caused by Fires (I wouldn't be surprised if there were more influencing factors as well) but I now believe it is essential for teachers to develop a nurturing relationship with their students. Now, if a student handed in late work, I may pull them aside, ask them if they are okay and why they haven't completed their assignment. Student and teacher relationships are so important to a students education, and "Fires in the Bathroom" not only gives you guidelines, but it gives you solutions to problems that many teachers face today.
