Teachers have you been calling “mean” by students or some staff?

I teach fifth grade and I’m not one of the “cool” teachers. I greet my students with a smile and good morning but I set expectations for their grades, assignments and DO NOT accept late work. Sounds mean but I expect my students to turn it in on time and be in class ON TIME. I don’t play around.

I’m kind, but I’m VERY firm. I’ve been called “mean” by several students. I mean I’m a fun person and silly but I don’t play around and I mean business. I’m 25 but I want the students to know that they will not overpower me just because I’m young and I’m petite (5’0”). I kind of have to be tougher.
One student said, “Our substitute teacher before you came was very nice.”
Another said, “You always make us say stuff to get something and out other teacher just gives it us.”

I told them that I’m not them and I will make them work for it! I’m not going to make it easy. Things don’t come for free. Even some teachers said I need to loosen up and I’m too mean. Really! I thought we be on the same page.

Teachers have you been calling “mean” by students or some staff?
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