First Week Musings

And so it goes, another semester has begun. It seems I take so much time "getting ready" for students-- in whatever shape or form-- and sometimes forget the "human element". Gavin, my 4th grade grandson, was so worried, almost to the point of being ill, about starting 4th grade. Of course, he made it through the day and later told me how excited he was about his teacher and his new class. I wonder how his teacher greeted a scared 8-year old and, by the time the day was over, had him convinced 4th grade was a good place? As a teacher, what is more important in my "planning" for students--making sure I have something to "cram into their heads" or creating an environment that says "this is a good place for you--a place where you will be safe physically and emotionally"? ( I just love Maslow's thoughts and ideas!)

Reading DB postings from the MAT students today was sheer joy! Even though they have been teaching only a few days, I read responses such as "I really love teaching", or "I made it through the first few days and it's still fun". As I read between the lines, most were still excited. I worry about those I did not hear from. I've heard "through the grapevine" that some of them are really having problems. I know their jobs are tough--probably tougher than anything I've ever experienced. But I also have confidence that maybe tomorrow each one of them will have a positive experience that will get them through the day. All it takes is one smile, or one light coming one in a student's eyes to get you through that particular day. Even after 30+ years teaching I still look forward to those little miracles that tell me I am in the right profession, that what I do really matters. Teaching must always be a "one day at a time" experience.

I just hope that I am able to convey to all my students that even though teaching is a tough job, those moments will come when you know you are making a difference--even if those moments are few and far between.