I am a jr. high/high school English teacher, who was diagnosed about 3 years ago. I recently changed doctors and medicines, and am having some success in moving toward new things. I am anticipating starting a new job this fall. I was successful at my previous job, but felt unsuccessful due to struggling with ADD issues. (Paperwork, turning things in on time, planner/gradebook not useful due to large handwriting, organization, and constant worry over admin's thoughts on my job performance.)

I went for diagnosis after 2 students I was trying to teach (2 boys with opposite extremes of ADD/ADHD...one hyper and loud, the other withdrawn and distracted) had me frustrated. I couldn't get the high school parents to realize that they had a problem, not a behavior problem. (Not trying to diagnose, them, but wanted them evaluated, so that they would succeed.) Then, recognized my frustrations with myself in the quiet and withdrawn student. Realized that although I couldn't change things for these 2 students (outside of my classroom) I could change things for me.

Decided to pursue writing, and left teaching for 3 years. Now, I'm looking to reenter the teaching world. I want to feel successful this time around. I have made changes in my own life, and plan to enter with a game plan. I am changing the planner/gradebook I use, even if I have to buy them. I plan on asking for a mentor teacher, and a weekly/bi-weekly meeting with principal to discuss performance. (Not disclosing at this point to them, but plan to ask for "help" as a newer teacher.) Any ideas on how to ask for organization/filing help at work?

Also, any ideas on other accommodations that would help me start things off on the right foot?

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