Ups and Downs

I am excited to share! I had a very interesting week. I continued to teach Science and we will be taking a test on Wednesday. This is definitely a test for how well I was able to get the material across to the students and if they are able to remember and perform well. I am excited to learn more about testing and preparing students for a test.

My down day was Thursday. The students were boisterous alllll day. We had boys getting into fights (physical and verbal) over the football game at recess, where they were standing in line, what color someone's hat was in a movie, you NAME it! I felt like I was in some sort of school working solely on teaching behavior. It was a very difficult day, a real test. In Science, we were working in groups and I had two boys near tears over things that were said. I was very surprised and disappointed by the way they were treating one another.

After the students left, my co-op said, "What a day, huh?" and the tears began to flow!! She told me that was one of her most difficult days yet. She also informed me that this has been her most difficult class ever (she has taught for 11 years) because of the dynamics of the students. The boys' personalities really clash. She also said that many of the students are the oldest in the family and some are only children, so that adds challenges as well. She also told me that had considered not having a student teacher due to the difficulties of this class. I was pretty disappointed and frustrated by this information, really wanting to be in a welcoming environment where I can thrive and not a place where I am breaking up fights and solely managing the students.

Todd treated me wonderfully when I returned home with dark chocolate and a pizza. I had a relaxing evening and spent time journalling and praying.

Friday I went to school with a renewed attitude, hoping to be able to reach the students with love. I was supposed to teach religion, so I scratched the original book and wrote a devotion/lesson on God's great love for us and the love we can show others through the power of the Spirit.

We had a good discussion and I had the students journal about things they've struggled with/messed up on and how we can work to improve it. I had one boy write, "I am often angry with some of my friends, but I know that God can fill my angry spots with his love." How wonderful!

My co-op had rearranged the students and had a few strategies to try, providing many opportunities for students to work together on different assignments. It was beautiful to see their cooperation and love when the day before had went so poorly!! I was truly energized by the students. What a great feeling!

My co-op said it was the best and most refreshing day she'd had all year! How wonderful. Praise Jesus!

Thank you for your concern, love and prayers.