Many of the second year students from Werklund School of Education are on their final practicum and well on their way to setting up their new classrooms in September.
Here are a few resources that may help in the transition from student to working teacher.
First is the recent blog post and short video about 17 Things They Didn’t Tell You About Becoming a Teacher. Keep in mind #1 – your feet will hurt for the first little while.
John Spencer has an interesting blog to follow and a new YouTube Channel entitled, “New Teacher Academy” that is certainly worth a visit and maybe even a “follow.” Many of his posts are linked to Design Thinking and innovation in your own classroom. Much of it is positive and provided in digestible bites rather than large, buffet style dishes.
If no one gives you a “New Teacher Card,” make one for yourself and use it often. There is a culture in every school that is unique and you can not be expected to know all the details in that first year.
The Doucette Library is still here for you. As an Alumni, you have access to our collection to help with your teaching. Use the resources you have used in the past in your classroom. That goes for research guides and pinterest boards. You have access to it all.
Find a mentor in your new school that you feel comfortable with and ask them questions. In fact, keep an on-going list of questions on your desk for the end of the day when you are tired and have forgotten what went on.
Everything will seem new but take some chances anyway. The best way to innovate is to jump in and see what works. Try it with one class and assess the success afterwards.
And, a little tip for you elementary school teachers that not everyone will tell you…buy some heavy coverage funny pjs in anticipation of Pajama Day. And matching slippers if you can. Box them up in your closet and take them out for the day!
Doucette Ed Tech 