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June 19, 2012

Year One... Done.

Classroom packed up and ready to be cleaned over the summer.
My first full year of teaching has come to an end. I am sad to say goodbye to my students, but happy to welcome summer vacation and a sorely needed recharging. Reflecting on the year I feel proud about what I have been able to achieve, but restless in the knowledge that no matter how much I learn, this is a lifelong endeavour with few clear answers.

I have witnessed some amazing growth in my students. I don't share those stories publicly, but it is the best part of this profession.

In terms of the physical space and the focus of my writing, things have really blossomed. I have achieved most of what I set out to do for the school year. Some of the achievements I am most proud of is the whiteboard transformation, setting up my own interactive whiteboard, and establishing a classroom blog. Other changes that I didn't blog prominently about include setting up a bank of six computers, a new digital projector, a document camera, a guided groups table, and wireless internet (all thanks to a supportive administration and parent council).  With hard work, great support, and a little luck I was able to transform a technologically barren space into something that is more my style and in line with what I think a 21st century classroom should look like.

There are lots of improvements yet to consider; I will share those new goals over the course of the summer.

For now, it's time to feel good about what's been achieved and recharge.

2 comments:

  1. Kent Manning4 July 2012 at 05:30

    Congratulations on completing your first year in the classroom. There is something special about your very first class. I'll never forget in my first year in 1985, looking up at the door, seeing my name on it and saying to myself, "I'm responsible for these children".

    Also, you may find yourself thinking back to your first class as the years in your career go by. I still do all these years later. I can see their faces as 10 or 11 year olds. (I started with a Gr. 5/6 class back then) even though they are well into their 30s by now.

    One of the big differences you have now in starting is all things web 2.0. Back in 1985 I was fortunate to have an overhead projector and a VCR connected to our school's one TV on a cart!

    You'll be reflecting all summer long I'm sure. Here's to many more successful years. All the best!

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  2. Kevin S. Wood4 July 2012 at 06:13

    Thanks for the comment Kent. It took a while to get that name plate on the door but it certainly did load on the responsibility!

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