Adventures of Ms.K

I never expected to change my major from International Relations and Political Science to Biological Sciences Education and English Teaching, but I did. My first week in college I was asked to teach a Sunday school lesson on Helaman's Stripling Warriors (one of my favorites) and from there I was called as a teacher in that ward. One of my favorite callings of all time! I learned different techniques and lesson patterns to more effectively teach and was grateful for the experience. Then, in my next two wards, I received the same calling. Hint. Hint. I really loved preparing each lesson, applying the principles throughout the week, and connecting to the class. When I hit a wall with my previous major, teaching immediately came to mind. But then I wanted to teach everything! But I finally narrowed it down to all the sciences : ) and english.

And while I have a few more requirements before the ink is dry on my teaching certificate, I have been substitute teaching in the local school district. Though being a sub is different from a legitimate teacher I've learned many valuable lessons.
* The teachers who make a real difference are those who listen because
* Students are really seeking somehow who will listen. Listen to their worries and fears, hopes and dreams- listen without trying to be in control. And more often than not, that listening happens in a classroom rather than the counselor's office.
* There is a time for everything, even in Biology and Lit class. A time for laughter and music, a time for quiet studying, a time for disciplining and a time for compassion.
*Students complain to subs all the time- "What's the point of_____? When will I ever use this?" I've learned that as a teacher I want to help them make those connections. Make biology class relate to Shelley's Frankenstein, to their modern art class, and back to European History. I want to help them see that the real education is in connections.
* I learned that as a teacher I could have students at four or five different levels in a class. I've met high school students who can barely read and middle school students who can do calculus in circles around me. There is no uni-level class which is both an obstacle and a challenge to rise to.
* The teacher's lounge is much less cool and mysterious now than when I was a student : (
* School can be a place of wonder and magic- sometimes when you know where to look and sometimes when you learn to create it.
* All class pets should have names, even 6 inch poisonous spiders. It makes it easier to call them when they hide under the desk!!!
* If you are excited and enthusiastic about a topic, it is much easier to interest the students. Just don't go fanatic- then they think I am a hermit scholar who has no social life ( actually not that far from the truth).
* And finally, students think they can shock you by swearing or by telling you outrageous things. The teacher can shock the students by listening, with kindness, with generousity, and by creating an interactive learning environment.