So here I sit, an unemployed teacher, inspired yet disconsolate,
wanting to use my life experiences to educate and inspire kids, any kids, to
unlock their potential. I have had three
interviews thus far, but it seems administrators are not willing to take a
chance on a first year teacher. I completely
understand especially given the fact that well over 100 teachers applied for
these positions. So I trudge on, doing
the only thing I know how…preserver!
As I wait for the next opportunity I find myself dreaming of
time when I finally do get my opportunity.
I have so many visions of things I would do in my classroom that I
sometimes find it hard to sleep. I play
out classroom scenarios in my mind, fine tuning them, just waiting for the
right time. I see lessons about the
cloning of the Woolly Mammoth and what it would do to the Eco-System. I see PowerPoint Slides, I see dioramas, I
see inspired learning, and most of all I see fun. I dream about inspiring kids about science
through things like Steve Spangler’s Sick Science. Using quick but amazing science demonstrations
to peak the kid’s interest then pushing them to explore further, perhaps
develop their own science experiments.
I want to explore the world with my students, reaching out
to my contacts in Japan, Germany, Korea, and other countries. We will share our daily routines exploring
the differences in our cultures and how the size of the world has shrunk since
the invention of the internet. We can
share pictures and blogs expressing our interests while reaching out to others
to join our conversations. I see using technology
to its full potential bringing information into the classroom and opening the
minds of the students.
I see math becoming interesting as we explore Kahn
Academy. Using the tools available to instill
the basic skills of mathematics into the young minds, then allowing them to grow
at their own pace, surpassing the standards if they so desire. Imagine a 4th grade child taking
on the challenge of Algebra! Anything is
possible!
I also see a community being brought together through the school. Using blogs and other social media to keep the
community involved in what our school is doing.
Peaking community interest will increase community participation and
provide much needed support. All too
often members of the community are unaware of what is going on in the schools. By opening the doors, through social media,
we can allow community members to see the good our students are doing.
I see so much happening, but alas, it is but a dream of mine, for now…
