Week 1: Introduction

Week of January 6th, 2025

Much of last week's "Sunday scaries" were alleviated throughout this previous week. I was able to get to know ten wonderful students, ranging from 3rd to 7th grade, through conversations, some academic work, and being consistently present in the classroom. I could not ask for a better group of students, classroom, or mentor teacher! I have had so much fun this week.

Most of the week was spent observing how my mentor teacher manages and instructs her classroom. On Friday, there was a substitute, so I was able to lead many activities including small group rotations, morning meeting, and a short whole-group lesson. On Thursday morning, an idea crossed my mind. Because the students arrive at different times in the morning, the breakfast time tends to be long. I thought that I would start a casual activity called "Question of The Day with Miss K". During breakfast, I pause the cartoon that students are watching and ask them a "question of the day" that helps me get to know them better. The students seemed really interested in the activity on Friday. This also serves as a fun way to help me prepare to lead more whole-group activities.

Upon arriving at the school on Friday, I went to the main office to sign in for the day. The secretary and I greeted each other, as we do each day. She tells me, "Your mentor teacher isn't here today, so be ready to teach!" I smiled and said, "Okay." She then says, "See, you are going to be such a great teacher! You always come in here with a positive attitude and are flexible. I hope you consider this district when you go to get a job." That compliment really made my day! Her compliment set the tone for me to succeed that day.

To recharge for next week, I went to a Cleveland Monsters game! It was loads of fun and such a great way to fill my cup for next week. I can't wait to get back in the classroom and keep growing.