I would describe this past
week as pleasantly routine, as in a way that by week 5 of this placement, I’m starting to fit in
to the way classroom runs. Although this class is still a major challenge in my
multi-tasking skills, I feel like I’m beginning to handle it better and prioritize
more efficiently. I am also learning the routine in this class, which is that
things don’t always go as expected, schedules change, and sometimes you have to
switch it up. Being flexible to
these changes is the key to making it through the disorder. I am enjoying the
challenge and hope to make the most of my last two weeks with this awesome class.
As I come to the end of my
student teaching experience, after the initial shock of first few weeks, I feel I fell into it
quite naturally. Being an adult
with experience in dealing with kids, that part came easily for me. What I
didn’t know was that the harder part was trying to fit into what I felt the
cooperating teachers were expecting from me. It was quite awkward at times because
I wanted to be an asset to their classroom while I was there, but also try some
of my own ideas. I feel lucky to
have been placed with great cooperating teachers from whom I have learned so
much. I also feel less intimidated about having my own classroom because I
found that even they use trial and error to see what works for their students
each year and that its okay to try something else if it is not working.
Another thing I was super
nervous about, that I ended up having such a great experience with, is the
special ed classroom placement. I had never worked with or even known any
students with low incidence disabilities before, so I wasn’t quite sure what to
expect. I quickly learned that they were just as fun to work with and actually
have such a more laid back schedule and classroom. There are certain expectations
for the work they must complete each day, but there is also time for breaks and
experiencing other life skills, such as socializing, cooking, and manners. I
have even formed relationships with the students I was most intimidated by and
am grateful for getting to know them better.
I have completed most of my students
teaching requirements. I still need to update my online portfolio and collect
some recommendation letters, but I have kept up with my requirements despite
the intensive schedule. I hope to work on my applications for some jobs and also
plan to finish my General Science middle grades endorsement early this
summer. I am looking forward to
what’s next in this journey.
I had my last visit from my
college supervisor this week and am so grateful for her input and advice. It was
nice to touch base with her about my classroom placements and discuss the
classroom experience I was having objectively. I couldn’t have asked for a
better supporter. Thanks again Prof. Royster!
