What is entitlement? Why do some kids feel like they should have it and others don't?

My job would be so much easier if I could just understand this business of entitlement. It's odd too because you'd think this was a bigger issue in the rich school I taught in. Not so. The worst kids I've ever encountered are right here in Las Vegas. They never seem to miss the subtle (and not so subtle) opportunities to "get" irony.

Take the students who claim they think all have the right to be listened to when they speak only to speak when someone else is talking. Or the kids who don't hold a door open for you but complain if you should do the same. How about those who disrupt the class constantly then don't understand when you get mad a them? I have one student who uses the "f" word fairly regularly (in my class to me and within my hearing) but claims she freaked out on me because I had the nerve to same "damn" to her face.

This is the word nigger. I heard kids using it in class, joking around. I don't get it. If you want to be treated with respect, show some. To yourselves and those around you. Really, if you don't want to be called an asshole, don't use the word asshole. I don't like the word cunt. Guess what? I don't use it.

This year is definitely a learning curve for me. Given the chance, I would like to work in a Hispanic school next year. They seem to have more respect for their own role in learning. They don't play the blame game as often and they don't hate me for no reason.

What's wrong with education? We don't reflect enough on what we do and who we are. Students need to own up to their faults and learn how to attract more flies with honey.