My final week at Nathan Bishop was definitely bittersweet. I felt like I finally came into my own during my time there. I believe it happened because of Jennifer Jerome. She was absolutely amazing and the best CT a student teacher could ask for. I didn't want to say goodbye to her because it was more like playing and hanging out together than working. We understood each other from the beginning and I feel like our time was cut short. I can only send a million thanks to her for all the confidence she helped me find. She is definitely someone I will miss seeing everyday because she made me laugh from the time the day started until 2:45 when the last bell rang. She is definitely someone who I will call for a dinner date during my first year teaching.
As for the kids, I love then all. They drove me crazy right up to the last day, however, I wouldn't have had it any other way. They kept me on my toes the entire time and it only helped me as a teacher. I found my voice so to speak. I learned how important it is to create community as you work your way through the year, as well as a clear set of rules for the students in middle school. Without a clear set of classroom rules and the building of community, I don't think a successful year would happen for myself or the students. I also learned that no matter how many times you give a direction you need to repeat it five times after that. they have their moments but I know as humans we all do and I wouldn't want them any other way.
As for my entire semester- WOW! I feel like I am bursting with stories, happiness, and knowledge. I couldn't have asked for a better profession to be invested in for the rest of my life. I know I belong behind the desk, at the front of the room, and working on my white board handwriting. I know that this is the one thing that puts a smile on my face everyday and also has be hot like lava in my core when people say "gooooood luck being ac teacher". It's not going to be an easy journey but I am willing to take the risks I need in order to grow even more. I love the look on the faces of my students when I teach them something new or when they figure it out on their own.
The biggest reward I received this year has been my time with the students at Central High School. Last night I had the opportunity to chaperone their Senior Prom. The amount of love I received through hugs and pictures was overwhelming. I couldn't have asked for a better learning experience with a better group of students. The respect they have for me is within equal amounts that I have for them. I consider each and every one of them my children having been the teacher of just about all the seniors at Central.
This semester has left will with nothing but positivity and optimism. I feel I can take on the world and I definitely plan to do just so. I've met amazing people, hopefully future colleagues, and I've become a mentor to many. I am so thankful for my student teaching experience, my classmates for all support, and my family. I never gave up because they never gave up on me.
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