Fourth Week of School - Thursday, Sept. 24th, 2009

As usual, lots of running around on Thursday. Took some of the kids to computer lab, then took all of them to the library, then recess, then it was on to music. So once again, no real teaching or learning until 11:30AM, when we had math for an hour. I know that Mr. M is grateful for the time block, in order to catch up on some paperwork and administrative stuff, but I know he is frustrated at the amount of time that is lost.

Still, the day was not without its rewards. Each day I have more and more kids come up to me, either asking me a question, showing me their work, or asking for help (of course it doesn't help that today officially was my last day in the class until we return in January, although I am planning on coming back periodically over the next two months, mainly on Fridays when we have off).

I have even gotten to the point where I feel somewhat comfortable speaking to a student if he or she is not paying attention, or is talking, or is being disruptive. I think one of the main problems a student teacher may face is in being TOO tentative, and not being assertive enough, even early on, and Mr. M has no problem with me asserting some authority, at this stage (he says it can only help when I return in January). But overall, I really like this group of kids. I can see where it may be easy to find some "favorites," but I also understand how important it is for a teacher to try and resist that impulse, because it really doesn't do anyone any favors. But having said that, I think that if you see a child who is struggling and is obviously crying out for some sort of help, you do sometimes have to walk an extra mile (or meter) for them, especially if it is just shyness or awkwardness at work. If poor work continues, even after attention has been paid, then there may be more serious academic issues at play, but I am finding, especially with some of the fifth graders, that they feel somewhat lost and adrift, and are looking for some reassurance and confidence building. That I can do.