Week 12

This week was a short week because of job interviews in Florida and spring break beginning. I am really starting to feel comfortable in my placement and enjoy the students a lot. I taught all 7 centers this week and video taped a few. I had to get a giggle out of the students reaction with the video camera. All of them were in awe of it and had lots of questions, so it was difficult getting them on track for the lessons. I have found different motivators for students and it has been very helpful. One student likes to work for drawing a picture. another student will work for gum, and another will work for iPad time. It has been good learning all the various motivators and how to best meet my students needs.

Like I said, I made a quick trip to Florida to have an interview with a school down there. All my students were excited to have me back and ask me questions about the school in Florida. What a fun bunch of students I get to work with.

My last day of the short week ended on being observed for two lessons. I was amazed with the stuff my teacher had said about me. I never really knew if she thought I was doing a good job or if she enjoyed having me be a part of the team. Apparently she is very happy with my work and what I have been doing in the classroom. This was very encouraging.

Something I have felt challenged with this past week is not necessarily related to the students, but more so the staff. My teacher is very open about her lack of religion and she often speaks of her bad experiences with Christians. I have felt my faith challenged here. My teacher is not disrespectful, but she is very bold about her lack of religion and it puts me in difficult situations at times.  In my opinion, the work place is not a place to talk about politics or religion, but I have been put in situations where I have had to say something. It has been a challenge to know how much or little to say or do. I just keep praying for staff and showing my love for God through my actions and words. I pray that this will reflect my heart and that it will be something positive for them all.

Next week is spring break, so school will not start back up until April 4. When I arrive back, I will be teaching all 7 centers and beginning to add group sessions in my teaching load. I am very excited!