Each weekend I find myself in this monopoly coffee shop that serves drinks in a white cup and green label. Naturally, I am at Starbucks, sipping on lattes and typing away at my Teacher Work Sample. This week proves no different. So here I am, Saturday night 8pm, typing away and reflecting.
Exciting news came to me this week. The Center Coordinator from Cedar Falls contacted my Center Coordinator asking her if she had any student teachers with strong literacy backgrounds who would graduate in December. Apparently, there is an opening as long term substitute for a Title I reading position at a local school. My name was passed along! Nothing is ever a sure thing but it's nice to know my name is out there. This was a huge reality check. It seems that the real world is getting closer and closer... Behind me are the days of running on little to no sleep, eating junk food, and functioning properly only with an enormous amount of caffeine. Okay well, let's be honest, the caffeine addiction is still with me. I will probably never kick the habit. Other than that, I feel wonderful! Seriously, my body is so much healthier now that I have such a set schedule. It amazes me how much a good night's sleep can affect your health. With a bedtime of 10:30, strict meal times, and regular exercise, I have never felt better. I even feel like my emotions are more in check. Just one more example that teaching was really my calling!
At my seminar this week, someone decided to voice their opinion. We all know the saying about opinions. "Opinions are like __________, everyone has one." You can fill in the blank; I've got to keep it professional these days. So, the intelligent gentleman in the back decided to announce that "School is not the place for all of these high-fives, hugs, and fist-bumps. We don't have time for all that mushy gooshy stuff. It's time to learn."
Oh, my blood pressure was rising at a rapid pace! Obviously, I strongly disagree with the previous statement. I am a firm believer teaching the "whole child: heart, head, and hands." This same intelligent gentleman also shared his struggles with classroom management. Hot news flash sir, if you took time to build relationships with your students you probably wouldn't have half of the management issues that you do! In my mind, you don't have time to NOT to build relationships with your students. Research has shown that the most powerful statements for students are "I care about you and I believe in you." But, teachers can't just talk the talk, they need to walk the walk, too. A teacher's actions should show the students that they are there for academic and emotional support. Teachers need to take the time to show students they care. Whether that be words of encouragement, a high-five, or a heart felt hug, students need to know you are on their side and you want to see them succeed.
This week will be my last week at my first placement. It seems like three days ago I was assembling book boxes and attending open house. The time went by so quickly. I could not have asked for a better placement. My Cooperating Teacher has been my rock. The whole school community is refreshing. Everyone is friendly and passionate about education. Not all schools are like that. I hope that I can work in a place with this type of school environment. I don't want to leave these kids. I have taken the time to get to know each one of them. I hope they all enjoy the rest of the year and strive to be the best they can be. Hopefully, I can hold back my tears on Thursday. It's been wonderful! Although I don't want to leave, I am confident I will enjoy my next placement as well, working in Title I reading.
Teaching Tip from Week 7: "DON'T BE AFRAID TO SHOW TOUGH LOVE."
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