Credit Where Credit Is Due

A very unfortunate thing happened... A member of this fitness and rehab facility unfortunately passed away. One of our morning cycling members (Terri Cutright) had a wonderful idea to honor this former member. She mentioned the idea to me one morning before my class and I agreed with her that it was a great idea! She thought that some of our instructors could volunteer some time to teach a few cycling classes and have those that attended the class(es) to donate some money. Then, this money could be given to some charitable organization. This member said that she was going to talk to our coordinator and see if events could be put in motion to make this happen.

Soon after that, all the instructors received an email concerning Terri's idea. However, the email stated that it was the coordinator's idea (see excerpt from email below with member's name removed).

Instructors:

On Saturday, July 21, I would like to do a spin class/classes in memory of *** ****. My idea is to have members or nonmembers sign up to take a class and make a $20.00 donation in which we will give to the Special Olympics. Because of the limited number of bikes we have, I would like to offer more than one class on that Saturday.

I thought it was great that the coordinator was organizing this event but to take credit for it really made me upset! I emailed the coordinator telling her that I was glad she was executing this plan but that she should give Terri credit. Actually, I did a "reply all" so all the instructors knew as well. Of course, the coordinator was angry with me for doing this as I called her out. Part of her response was this:

When the final word goes out to members, and the class time and agenda have been finalized, credit will be given as I see fit. I don't appreciate you assuming that I would take all the credit for the class.

Hmmmm interesting -- She'll give credit as she sees fit... Not on my watch! I wanted to make sure Terri was given credit regardless. Anyway, I didn't assume anything. The email stated "my idea" coming from the coordinator... Simple as that!

It was at this point when I decided I wanted a break from this madness to rethink my position. I decided to take the month of July off from teaching all together. When I'm emotionally drained and at the point where I'm angry about going to that facility, I thought it was best to take a break. A part-time job that I do for fun because I really enjoy teaching had become a nightmare because of one single coordinator.