Learning Lots

So far, I’ve been blessed with amazing CTs at my placement. They both are so willing to let me teach, and participate in their class. I have a wonderful science class made up of all seventh grade students, most of who are AVID students. They care so much about getting things done right, and completing their work on time. This class has virtually no behavior problems. All of the students here are very respectful, they participate, and they follow instructions. I must admit that I am a bit worried about having such a great class to begin with, because I will not get as many opportunities to practice good classroom management skills.

            I know, however, that I will need to be stern and use these skills in my Language Arts Class. I have three students who have an IEP, one of which is for behavior. What I am most worried about for this class is that I will get to know the “trouble makers” much better than the well behaved students. I usually work closely with these kids during the week, and I know a lot about their learning styles and personalities. I couldn’t tell you hardly anything about the other students in that class, because my time with them is not as much.

            In my placement I also have the wonderful opportunity to attend Team, Professional Development, and Collaboration meetings with my CT, which has been very beneficial for me. Not only do I know what to expect during these meetings, but I’m learning many critical thinking skills for both me and my students, I now am aware of just how organized teachers have to be, their different roles within the school, how they work together, what they do when they disagree, etc. I’m excited to see the many other things I will get the privilege to learn during this time, and I am also looking forward to building fundamental relationships with the teachers on my team as well as the principals in the building—who often times attend the professional development meetings.