Etiquette Dilemmas

I am a teacher. Every afternoon from 3:00 to 4:00 is my planning period. At this time the custodian comes in to clean my room and is VERY chatty! She insists on blabbering on endlessly to me about her marriage, her kids, her job, as though we are long-time girlfriends.

First of all, I am a kind but reserved and serious person who doesn't "chat" a lot. Second, and more importantly, I NEED this time to straighten up my room, plan daily lessons, and do other paper work, and need as few distractions as possible.

I don't want to come across as snobby or rude, but this woman's constant gabbing is driving me nuts! Please help, and thanks in advance.

Put in earphones, as though you are listening to something. If she disturbs you, just say you have to listen to this information on the lesson plans you are creating. AND LEAVE THE EARPHONES ON.

I have a chatty co-worker who positively rattles. I can't wear earphones where I work, but not making eye contact while she rattles, helps. I says "It am not giving you my full attention." She eventually (couple of minutes) gets the message.