As I said in my last post, my cooperating teacher has been out the past two weeks. The latest report is that she should be back on Wednesday as long as her doctor's appointment goes well tomorrow. She is definitely feeling better to some extent. She has been emailing me constantly the past few days. I now have a pretty good idea of what this week is going to look like, in terms of what the next few topics are in most of the subjects.
In all of the craziness the past few weeks, I have been very thankful for Mrs. Tikten (the other 3/4 MAC teacher), Mrs. Shupak (the TA for the two 3/4 MAC classes), and Ms. Masi (the substitute). They have all been extremely helpful in many different ways. Mrs. Tikten has been checking in on Ms. Masi and I to make sure that we have everything that we need. Mrs. Shupak has been extra vigilant in making copies and ensuring that the students are where they are supposed to be on time. Ms. Masi has given me excellent pointers on how to better my lessons. I am definitely glad to have these three wonderful women as a part of my student teaching experience.
Becca, wow! It sounds like you are doing a great job and managing your class very well during a very difficult time! (I had to take over classes with a substitute too when my cooperating teacher resigned 3-4 weeks ago. It was crazy for awhile, and still is.) I want to encourage you-- you can do it! Keep on going! I hope that you don't let the stress of the situation take over your life, maintain some measure of sanity! I'm so glad that you are surrounded by three other great teachers who care about you and the students.
ReplyDeleteThat is crazy, in all seriousness though. there is no doubt in my mind that those kids are learning and that this is a great opportunity for you. I am not saying it is easy, not at all. But this is a great experience for you. I'm sure your truly growing as a teacher during all this. I know that whenever your cooperating teacher returns she will be impressed and so thankful for your help. Keep shining as a teacher and most importantly as a Christ-like model for those kids. Keep on pushing through.
ReplyDeleteRachel and Gretchen, thank you for the encouragement. I am definitely growing through this experience. In some ways I think that it might be easier if it was just the long term sub and I. Mrs. Gabriele is very worried and concerned about us. Trying to comfort her and keep her in the loop on everything is harder than just planning with the sub. It also makes us worry more about her and not overburdening her. We want her to be able to rest and get better, not be worrying about us.
ReplyDeleteAw Becca, I am so glad that you have those people around you to help. I can't imagine what it would be like without them. I bet you are doing great and keeping the students on track and in control. Keep up the good work and have some fun while you're at it. :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Mariah! I am trying to keep them on track and in control. Much easier said than done though.
ReplyDeleteGod has arranged it all for your good:)
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