Hi Danica,
I'm at a Boy's Middle School too. Have been since August. If you had an orientation, you may have been warned about boys middle schools. I know that my own orientation scared me silly before I even got to my school.
Actually, the biggest problem I had at the beginning was what we would call sexual harassment in Western countries. I adopted a zero tolerance policy, and it was totally stopped within a month. What I did was, even for little things, I would send the perp(s) into the hall. (This was after I had explained to them that I wouldn't accept it).
About other forms of discipline, I have no advice other than to remember that they are kids. I find that they react better to me when I am joking and having fun with them than when I am being a hardass. This also makes it more effective when I actually have to do punishments.
I am trying out a rewards system this term, and I have a new co. We'll see how it goes.
Good luck!
