Intern Year: Week 1 8/19-8/23

During my first week in my second grade classroom I observed and noticed many interesting, funny, and insightful moments. Something that has really impressed me so far is the passion and drive my mentor teacher has for her profession. From day 1 of my internship it was obvious to me that my mentor teacher was excited and eager to begin the new year. I could tell that she had worked extremely hard over to summer to create new lessons for her students as well as collected books to add to the classroom library. After a few days of the planning the children arrived. One of the first things my mentor teacher told her students was how much she cared for them and that she will love them all like they were her own family. I instantly noticed a change in the student behavior; they seemed to feel more "safe" and many of their personalities began to shine through. After seeing this I realize how important it is to tell your students how much you care. Also, I realized the more passion and love you have for teaching will eventually result in better lessons, projects, and student learning.