I Am Glad I Am A Teacher

I mentioned it in an earlier blog.  I truly believe that teenagers can thrive when they have a positive role model in their lives – someone they look up to and respect.  I think many kids are  hungry to have a hero – someone they can trust and someone who brings a sense of structure and security to their everyday life.

I am glad I am a teacher.

Every morning, I arrive at my classroom about an hour and a half early to prepare for my students. I want my classroom to be inviting and comfortable.  I project the learning objectives on the board and anticipate the questions my students will have about the day’s lesson as I  clean the desks with Lysol wipes.  I turn on the accent lamps in the corners of the room and place the Jolly Ranchers on the table by the door.  Most kids want a relaxing environment and a safe haven to learn.

I am glad I am a teacher.

At the beginning of every period, I welcome my students at the front door of my classroom.  As they enter my classroom, I greet them by name and make small talk about something frivolous – the weather, a popular TV show or the game on Friday night.  Most kids simply want to be seen, heard, and acknowledged. They want to know that you care.

I am glad I am a teacher.

I try to keep it simple.  I have one behavioral expectation in my classroom – Respect.  The expectation is that everyone is equal in my classroom and deserves to be treated respectfully.  Whether my students are comparing and contrasting two characters in a novel, discussing the thematic elements in a short story, or delivering a presentation on Early America Literature, they know that they all have the right to express their opinions and ideas without fear of ridicule.  Most kids crave acceptance, structure, and balance.

I am glad I am a teacher.

Truthfully, most days, I am a facilitator of learning.  I structure lessons that will require my students to think, analyze, and assess. I prod them with questions and I stand back and give them the floor.  Quietly, I become the student and they become the teacher.  I learn, as I watch them discuss and debate and discuss some more – until they reach a reasonable solution on their own.  I have learned that all students can succeed if you give them a chance.

 I am glad I am a teacher.

Every day for nine months I get to be around kids – I am so lucky!  I have the best job in the world!