This past semester (Spring 2014), I completed my student teaching and last semester of my teaching credential program. I was placed in my dream district that was close to my house, which made the commute easier. I taught all day for sixteen weeks and on Wednesday nights, I went to class. It was a crazy few weeks and incredibly exhausting.
My first placement was in a 3rd grade classroom. I was so nervous! I had no idea what to expect from my new master teacher and from the kids. I didn't have experience with 3rd grade so I wasn't fully experienced with the curriculum. However, my fabulous master teacher put me at ease and the kids were so, so sweet. My master teacher really guided me and made amazing suggestions. My master teacher was also so organized and a great planner, which was awesome because I love to plan and be organized. Planning and organization makes me feel calm and more confident in my day.
And the kids? Amazing. We were having discussions every day and the kids asked great questions. They had a great sense of humor too. Plus, their independence skills were awesome.
My second placement was in a K/1 combo class. I was not told it was a combination class until my first day there. With 20 first graders and 8 kinders, there was a lot for me to learn! At first, it felt like there were always a hundred things going on at once but once I found my groove, I was able to really enjoy the experience. My master teacher was super enthusiastic, energetic, and really supportive of letting me try new ideas or strategies.
The kids were so curious and excited about the lessons too. While they had tons of energy, it was great to be able to funnel that energy into their learning. The kids were super sweet too and always giving me little gifts - flowers they picked outside, drawings they made, etc.
I had such a great student teaching experience and I am really excited to get my own classroom.
