Last year, I was documenting my growth as a student teacher. Due to participating in the PDS program at ISU, I was fortunate enough to have a full year experience. This experience absolutely shaped me and helped me realize that teaching is indeed a journey.
I recently accepted an offer for a teaching position, and my mindset began to shift. I always had a CT who had me under her wings and would show me the trials and triumphs of the classroom. Now, do not get me wrong, I was ecstatic to accept a teaching position, but I also realized that I was on my own, but then something hit me. The thing was I wasn't. In the midst of that excitement and anticipation for what's to come , it can be easy to lose track of how far we have come and who we have standing by our side. My family is my rock, and my former teachers/professors have always supported me and continue to do so, but I also have one other instrumental resource at my fingertips, and that is my Twitter PLN. My Twitter PLN has shaped me beyond measure, and of course, fear creeps in when trying to get ready and gets me to wonder if I am enough for those students, but my PLN reassures me that I am. I want to be the best teacher I can be, and that is what my PLN and I have in common. Every educator I meet, no matter how much experience they have, chimes in and joins chats along with offering words of wisdom. We are all in this together, and that has made this first part of my journey so incredibly special. At this point, I have to-do lists, and my room is filled with school supplies. I am trying to figure out procedures and the little things that add up, but, while those things may seem important at this moment, I know that there is so much more to come. I want my students, first and foremost, to be loved, cared for, and supported. I plan on having a community circle every morning, a memory jar, and just trying to build that relationship with each and every single one of my students. It can be easy to get overwhelmed with the small things, but when I go on Twitter, I realize the incredible support I have and know that people are cheering me on. That means the world. I need to remember to focus on my why and let that navigate me in the right direction. I cannot wait to meet my incredible students because these students will definitely hold a special place in my heart. I hope that they grow in many ways throughout this year, and I am excited for the challenges that this year will bring because I know that everyday is a learning opportunity and, in the end, those challenges will help me become a better teacher for the amazing students that I serve. Thank you for supporting me 110 percent of the way.
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AuthorMy name is Susan, and I will be starting my first year of teaching this year. Archives
December 2018
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