Coping With Issues of Weight

During the first week of school, we received a note from Margot’s parents. Margot was battling an eating disorder than had left her hospitalized for much of the summer. She had medical and counseling appointments scheduled several times a week, and she was very uncomfortable talking about or being around food.

I am ashamed to confess that I hadn’t noticed Margot. My classes are large, and she had chosen a seat near the back. She hadn’t spoken to me or anyone else. She was a small, quiet girl. Nothing about her stood out or drew attention. 

However, I did notice Carina from the moment she stalked into the classroom. Her eyes were angry slits, and her mouth was pinched into a tight scowl. I am ashamed to confess the other reason I noticed Carina: She was noticeably bigger than all of the other kids, and she had trouble fitting into the desk.

Over time, it became clear that neither girl could be accurately defined by her physical appearance. Beneath Margot’s unassuming demeanor was a quick, incisive mind. Inside the halo of rage that circled Carina was a tender, compassionate girl. They are struggling in similar, yet different ways. Although both girls are dealing with issues of weight, only one of them is getting the support she needs.

Margot has a doctor’s note in case she feels too weak to participate in strenuous gym activities. Carina is failing gym because she’s too uncomfortable to change in the locker room. Kids make an exaggerated attempt to jump out of Carina’s way when she’s coming down the hall, but they gingerly let Margot pass when the halls are jammed. Margot has permission to see the guidance counselor whenever she is confronted with an uncomfortable situation. Carina has to deal with any discomfort she may feel on her own.

Weight issues among students have long been a challenge for teachers. Nearly 32 percent of all adolescents are currently overweight. The 2010 Key National Indicators of Well-being report shows a 2-percent increase in obesity in children ages 6 to 17. Keep in mind that this 2 percent represents nearly 1.5 million kids. If trends continue, this will be the first generation of kids whose life spans are shorter than their parents’. There are literally millions of kids like Carina, and the adults in charge are failing them.

In our country and in our schools, some kids are eating themselves to death while others are purposely starving. Margot may have more protection and resources. But Carina is just as significant, and she deserves to be treated that way. Perhaps then she would smile.

Sofen teaches at Sparta Middle School in Sparta, N.J.