I totally agree with you. I went into last year wanting to be the laid back teacher that everyone loved. Give an inch and several miles were taken. By the time I figured out that being laid back was a huge mistake it was like trying to herd cats getting things straightened out.

This year I am going to be kind but also very firm. I really hope this approach works! I come from a family of teachers as well. My wife has been at it for 11 years, and then two aunts and two cousins. I'm also teaching in a title 1 in Texas.