Week 2: The Worst!

This week was definitely a tough week. To explain it the best, I’ll just walk you through each day.

Monday- I’m deeming this day…the worst! I spent all day Sunday perfecting Monday’s lesson plan. Down to the last minute I planned what I wanted the students to achieve. Of course, not everything goes to plan. My lesson finished 15 minutes before the bell. I experienced a lot of behavioral issues too. I tried to revamp my lesson before 6th period. Again… finished early! After fighting back tears, I finally broke. I poured out my heart to Mrs. Mann. “I don’t think I’m suppose to be a teacher. I can’t plan lessons. I can’t handle the class. I can’t do this, period.” I started crying, and crying, and crying. I tried so hard to keep it in and wait till I could cry it off to my mom, but for some reason it proved to be too much. One of the high school’s assistant principles walked into the room, and my embarrassment continued. After a pep talk and wonderful encouragement, I finished the day.

Tuesday- After a meltdown on Monday, I tried to keep my head high Tuesday. When I arrived at the school, Mr. Hamm (the assistant principle) gave me a wonderful classroom management book with a card saying “take on the challenge!” I knew I needed to put it behind me and keep going. Some problems occurred, but the day at school went much better than Monday. After teaching, I drove to Kent for senior seminar. I met with the others in my cohort. Almost all of them were stressed out and ready to break. Even though this is horrible to say, I was relieved. I thought it was just me, but it’s nice to know I’m not the only one. *To those who will student teach soon… you will be stressed! I’m not sugar coating it! Trust me though, with good support and the will to go forward, you can do it!

Wednesday- The day at school went well, but I worked after school. We were told not to work while student teaching… I agree! Unfortunately I need money for gas; therefore I only work a few hours a week.

Thursday- Parent/teacher conference night! We didn’t have any conferences- only an IEP (Individual Education Plan) meeting. I thought the meeting went very well. I was interested in everything mentioned and excited to be involved in the meeting.

Friday- O finally Friday! After one long week, today finally came! I went to school, gave out quizzes, went to a pep rally, and ended the day at work.

This is the cliff notes version of the week. There was more drama, more tears, and less sleep than ever. To add to the pile, I was mistaken for a student at least twice everyday. Either I was stopped in the hall, the lunch line, or teachers’ lounge (yes, even the teachers’ lounge). The lunch lady asked “when did you graduate? Last week?” Although it’s funny, for once I wish I looked older than a seventeen year old. So as I try to look my age, next week brings new experiences.