It's been interesting for me to observe all of the progressions I've made so far this semester, and right now I'm feeling a little amazed and nauseous. But...it'll all turn out great because I've learned that I have the best PLC in the whole county, and maybe even the state.
From the moment I first stepped into my clinical school, everyone made me feel not only welcome, but important. I think one of the biggest grievances that preservice teachers and first year teachers can probably have is the feeling of not knowing what to do in this new setting, or how to jump right in and be a team member. My CE is always making me feel like I am part of the fourth grade team, which is such an honor. Not only that, but I work with some of the smartest, funniest, and most kind educators you could have handpicked from Cleveland County.
And it's not even just fourth grade. At our Open House/Title I/PTO Meeting, our principal was introducing teachers by grade level, and me being my awkward self, didn't know what to categorize myself as. She ended up introducing me as a student teacher, which spoke volumes about welcoming me into the school. I kind of freaked out a little bit, but it was okay. Having said all of that, we are a really close knit group that works hard to improve as a whole. Not only as a grade level, but as a school.
These relationships, I've learned, are really crucial when it comes time to get copies made for that killer lesson you've been working on, or when you're wanting the media specialist to do a special presentation for your class. It could also be that you've broken a table in your classroom and need to send out an SOS to the custodial team.
This experience has been awesome for me and I can only hope the rest of you had similar days as well! I came across an article on Twitter that discusses what life as a preservice teacher is like vs. what it should be like. I know I'm biased, but I really am so lucky to have a team that is willing to get back down on my level as a preservice teacher and teach me their wisdom. The knowledge of your CE will 110% make your experience that much better, I quickly found.
I've been learning just how important it is to start teaching with the right kind of mindset and attitude towards not only your instruction, but your students, coworkers, and leaders. The connections to NCTCS are endless, but some of the most relevant standards, I believe, are 1b(leadership in school) and 5c (dynamic environment).
**http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/finding_common_ground/2016/05/what_should_we_expect_pre-service_teachers_to_know.html
Olivia,
ReplyDeleteYou're so right on the importance of getting plugged in at your school! I'm glad that you have been able to build relationships with your CE, team, and other school personnel. I have been overwhelmed by the way the staff at my school have welcomed me and made me feel very much a part of everything that is going on in the school. Everyone is willing to lend a helping hand, wants to include me in teacher-learning experiences, and wants to know how everything is going for me this semester. I couldn't ask for a better placement!
Olivia,
ReplyDeleteI really connected to this blog post because I think it is crucial to have a preservice teacher feel important because that not only will boost their confidence levels, but will also strengthen the relationships with the school staff. I am glad you are making your mark and fit right in! Before you know it, you might find yourself on that PLC permanently!!
That is so awesome that you were able to feel so welcomed in your school. I love how they made you feel included and like you are a vital member to that school's team. This will be extremely helpful when it comes to student-teaching because you'll have all these sources that you can reach out to when you may need help. Relationships with the staff at the school are crucial, and it sounds to me that you have formed awesome relationships with the staff members. Who knows? Maybe you'll be able to work there permanently after student-teaching. :)
ReplyDeleteOlivia,
ReplyDeleteI loved reading about your experience in the classroom. Its great that you are welcomed and important in your school. I feel that it is so important to have that relationship with all of the staff and faculty members at the school. I also think it is great that you have a great connection with all of the teachers on your team. I know with my experience it has made my whole student teaching experience better since I have a good relationship with my CE and the rest of the first grade teachers. Great post!
Olivia,
ReplyDeleteI am so proud of you. Keep on making the most of our your placement so you are best prepared for student teaching!