My first year of teaching was a learning
experience. Nothing really prepares you for it! But I am sure that this first
year lays the foundation for many years to come.
As I ponder today and remember the
events in my first year of teaching, I think I might have some advice to give
next years’ new teachers. I have included the mentors that have inspired me with their advice as well…
A good
mentor is essential
A good mentor makes a world of difference! It is the one person
you can rely on to show you the ropes, where you don’t have to feel awkward for
asking silly questions. I was blessed
for having an excellent mentor who taught me about Lebone and how things
are done here, but more than that: she is inexhaustibly excited about the
possibilities of learning. She inspires me! She also has the insight to put
things into perspective when I get carried away. Thank you Bex, for being my
mentor!
Don’t be too easy on discipline!
I
started this year off by being too lax with discipline! Start out tough because
you can always relax your rules as time progresses if it is appropriate. But it
is near impossible to become more tough once students have seen your gentle side.
Like Sarah said: "Don't let them see you smile until May"?
Set up proper organization from the start
It is hard to imagine how
much paper accumulates in any classroom. Now triple that, and add paint, glue
and other supplies and materials in an Art or Design classroom. Set up a sensible organization system from
day one and, most importantly, use it every day. Label files and folders.
Organize storage spaces. It takes time to do but it will save you time in the
end. My dad: ”Remember, a tidy desk contributes to a focused mind.”
Ask for help
It is
not just because we are proud, but as new teachers we are sometimes afraid of
making mistakes. We think we can handle
any problem that comes our way, but that simply isn’t the case. Don't be afraid to appear vulnerable,
admit mistakes, and ask for advice. I have learned so much from my fellow
teachers who have always been more than generous with their time and advice.
When I needed help and my HOD was on leave, a team of other teachers jumped in
and helped where needed! Here I take Murray’s advice: “If you don’t have a team
yet, find yourself one.”
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Teaching
is hard work! I now really understand why they NEED four vacations every year.
You give it your best every day, you LIVE the Lebone values to be an example to
your students, you bond with the students… We are imperfect creatures, we also
sometimes make mistakes. Forgive yourself often, erase the slate, and gather your mental
strength for the next day. Bruce gave me the following advice: “Practice the
same compassion that you show your students by turning that understanding on
yourself.”
Working Too Hard And Burning Out
I have
caught myself thinking about a specific students learning even while on
vacation! We get so involved with our students, that we do not take the time to
rest and rejuvenate. Work smart, be effective, take care of your responsibilities,
but go home at a decent hour. Enjoy time with your family and set aside time to
relax and rejuvenate. Don't let classroom problems affect your emotional
well being and your ability to enjoy life away from school. (Yes, you do have a
life after school…) John told us:” Being a teacher is like juggling: it is all
about balance…”
Go to New Teachers Cafe
This is
the place to be! Where we recharge our batteries, where we learn from each
other. It is so nice to know that other teachers also struggle with the same
type of issues on a day to day basis! Someone to relate to and share with!
Perhaps also because it is the place where we reflect. We start learning, when we start reflecting…
I can go on to name
countless others who inspired and lead me this year! I will just end by saying:
“What a year! But next year will be even better!”
