Prompt #7

Much of what I have observed these past few weeks will serve to remind me how not to be, and act as a teacher.  I will remember to treat volunteers respectfully and make them feel appreciated.  I will remember to be positive with my students, use positive tones when I speak, and use preventative discipline as much as possible.  I know that teaching is a huge challenge, even when done badly.  So the trick is not to waste ones time doing it badly, and to do a good job.  It is especially challenging if we are to be culturally aware when we are teaching a diverse group of students.  Being sensitive to their various needs will be an ongoing hurdle.

I can see why involving and engaging the parents ought to be an essential part of being a good teacher.  I can feel the disconnect between parents and staff as they stand in the schoolyard watching their children line up.  Of course, there are language barriers which make communication difficult.  And cultural differences are evident too.  I think that maybe as a teacher becomes more familiar with the populations that she is working with, she will succeed more and more. Even more important than all this, I want to remember to bring joy and humor to the classroom.  I know the students will internalize much of who we are, especially in the younger grades,  so if we can convey a lightness and happiness about learning, we will have done a lot for them.  Also, helping them have confidence and believing in themselves will probably be the most precious gift we can give them, knowing they will go out the door as a less advantaged minority in out society.