A Strange Start
February 6, 2008
Our first day with our cooperating teacher was unusual to say the least. Ms L was helpful, full of suggestions, and clearly a wonderful teacher, but a black cloud hung over her and her students today. They have lost one of their own. The mood was somber and low-key. Ms L made sure to let her kids know that she was mourning right along with them and not particularly in the mood to push them too hard, though she did get them to complete some of the necessary daily business. Most striking for me was her compassion and her enthusiasm for her kids, whom she repeatedly referred to as ’smart’ and ‘awesome.’ I feel really lucky to be working with Ms L this semester.
February 6, 2008 at 4:49 pm
It sounds like she’s sensitive to her students’ needs, which would be particularly important if you’re working more with the “relationship-based teaching” style…
February 6, 2008 at 4:51 pm
Clearly, you payed much more attention to what she was saying to the students than I did. I, on the other hand, focused a little more on the students and their interaction with the other students and the teacher. Her enthusiasm, was definitely very positive for the students…some were a bit disruptive and she used subtle, yet comical persuasion to keep them on task. Lucky is definitely a good word to describe my feeling toward my cooperative teacher on the first day.
February 6, 2008 at 4:56 pm
Sounds like even though you guys had an out of routine day it was still a great experience and that you learned from being with her considering that this type of thing might happen during your teaching career, but I hope not. Ms.L sounds like she will be more than a rewarding mentor.