First day of Reflection

"By sharing your views, ideas, challenges and experience, you are not only setting an example for other teachers to follow, but also an example for your students.  Remember, those kids will grow up in a world that has always known the idea of sharing one’s thoughts online with the world.  And they need guidance on finding their own voice in that world.  Among others, they will look to you.  Share not only a love of lifelong learning, but of lifelong sharing  – show that it’s okay to be vulnerable and “out there”."
-Steve Woods 

Wow! Those are some powerful words. 

I use to blog back when Xanga and Myspace were cool. It's interesting growing up in a time without technology and social-cyber norms and then one day getting "slapped in the face" with innovation and collaboration at its finest. 

I have to say, for my ripe age of 24, I've been pretty adaptive to all that has been thrown my way. However, when I think on it more, isn't that what surviving is all about? The ability to adapt at a moments notice is in my opinion one of the strongest qualities of a teacher. Education has had its roller coaster drops and its superman soars, however, I'm wondering when or if Education can be at a constant. 

So let's get back to answering these questions: 
 What do you love most about teaching? 
What do I love most about teaching? Hmmm. I clearly love all the adorable letters, and pictures that kids just feel like giving you... then again I have sixth grade so that phase doesn't last that long. Honestly, I love teaching for the amount of knowledge that is interchangeable through student and teacher. Especially for this school year. In the previous post, I mentioned how our district was fortunate enough to afford two devices for every student. However, this causes a large learning curve not only for students but teachers as well. It's been great having my class jobs set up so my tech crew can really dive into the problem solving world of technology! I feel that teaching is more than just an exchange of information but also an exchange of compassion and familiarity. This is what I strive to do day in and day out of teaching. Another favorite of mine, which is new this year, is watching my former students excel in their studies. It makes me feel a little guilty that I am starting to like my new students almost as much! I feel like it's the second child syndrome to a mother! I'm definitely learning how to deal with these emotional rides and I don't even have my own students yet! 

 Name three strengths you have as an educator.

1. Compassion
2. Enthusiasm for lifelong learning
3. Versatility 

With that, I am signing off until tomorrow. Thanks for reading! 

-Heather