Nine years ago this September, I began working as a classroom teacher for the first time. (I taught drama before that.) It was third grade. I'm returning to third grade this coming September, so I pulled out my plan book from that first year. I was struck by a couple of things.
First of all, I can picture each one of those kids. I kept coming across their names in my notes and immediately their image would be there, as if I saw them just yesterday. As a teacher, I love all of my students. I work hard with every one of them. But there's nothing like my first class.
Secondly, I realized they are seniors this year. They will actually be graduating high school. I'm trying to picture them "all grown up". I like the third grade images better. :o) "All grown up" makes me a little sad. Anyway, I'm determined to attend their graduation ceremony. I don't know if I'll see any of the kids there, but I'd really like to go see it. My first class...
I was blown away by the difference in my teaching. I know soooooooooooooo much more now. (Thank God!) Although I enjoyed looking through my old plans, they weren't very helpful. I wonder if I'll feel that way ten years from now looking at my plans from this year. :o)
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
7 comments:
I hear ya! My first class of kindergarteners are now going to be in the ninth grade! How did that happen? They all attended my wedding ceremony, and I can picture them sitting in the temple in their little dresses and suits.
And my teaching has certainly improved since then. I had not a clue what I was doing!
Oh wait. I still don't have a clue.
p.s. glad you're coming to third grade. We will make some team!
You absolutely have a clue.
I am incredibly lucky to be teaching with you! :o)
You guys are going to have a fantastic year. Liz seems pretty great. I think you're going to be an awesome team. I wish I was going to be there to see it.
As for improving with time... my god, it's amazing what you learn.
You guys will be in the same team this year??
That's awesome, you will have the best year.
I hope you get good classes!!
I have taught for 14 years. In the middle of that I stayed home for 10 years raising my three little ones. I have taught my students' children. Boy has my teaching changed. The in-services and classes I have taken really changed almost all my teaching practices. Although I have taught all grades in private and public school, part of the time as a special ed teacher, my favorite grade is 3rd. I am home again now so I can help my special education son work on high school through correspondence. Have fun starting your year. I will miss the classroom so much!!!!
I love your blog. Visit mine if you like.
Post a Comment