For the past two semesters, as I have stated in previous posts, I have been student teaching in both fourth grade (fall semester) and Kindergarten (spring semester) classrooms. Last semester, when student teaching in my fourth grade classroom, I felt extremely nervous and unprepared for being a substitute teacher who could take over a whole day of teaching. However, this semester, I have been a substitute two times (most recently last week) and have felt a great feelingof confidence and liberation. It was wonderful implementing all the lessons as well as being the primary instructor and mentor for my students.
It made me feel very excited for when I get my own classroom and I honestly cannot wait to implement my own structures, organize my own resources, and help each student be the best person that they can be. Many people feel like being in a Kindergarten classroom would disuade me from teaching, but that could not be any further from the truth. If there is anything I have realized, its that whether I have been a student teacher or substitute teacher, my Kindergarten class has reaffirmed my love for teaching and no matter what grade I end up teaching, I will never forget this.
Tori its so great to hear that you love what you are doing. I think we sometimes get caught up with our program that we forget to appreciate our student teaching experience. I also share a similar feeling as you about running the class on your own. With my cooperating teacher being gone all week I really got to experience what it is to have a class of my own. Keep up the good work.
ReplyDeleteI'm so excited and happy for you - how wonderful that you are so confident in the path you have taken and the direction your are going! If you love what you do, you will never 'work' a day in your life. I am sure your enthusiasm shines through in your interaction with students and colleagues - I know I appreciate your energy in our classes!
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