Today was one of those days that seems never ending...and it was a minimum day. My students and I had to deal with the ridiculous procedure of getting textbooks, I know it sounds silly, but it really is a pain. The whole process is a waste of time, and in my opinion, could be done so much better, but we deal with it, just like so many other things in LAUSD. L-R: Katie, Me, Claudia, Brian Gibbs, Maritza, Brian Fritch
I knew I was having a long day when my students left and I started packing my things to go, only to realize that it was only 1:4o and I still had "professional development" meetings to attend.
The light at the end of the tunnel was in knowing that after more wasting of time, I would be meeting with Brian Gibbs, my mentor teacher since I began teaching. Also present would be Martiza and Claudia, my former student teachers who I have gotten very close to. Knowing how tired I was, I figured they would be feeling the same so I went for a Coffee Bean run and treated everyone to some blended goodness.
Every time I meet with Brian I am amazed. The minute you walk into his classroom you feel as if you have entered a shrine dedicated to his students. Pictures of them engaging in an array of learning activities cover every square inch of the walls; scattered in between you're also treated to Brian's favorite inspirational quotes and posters. Once my brain adjusted to the awesomeness of his classroom, I listened to Brian sharing his teaching secrets with us. He shares his wisdom in the most humble of ways, not realizing how many students and teachers he has impacted over the years. As I sit listening and taking notes, I have to remind myself that I'm not in high school anymore and that I'm there for a purpose--to learn from one of the best and share with my own students. Time passes quickly and before we know it it's past 6:00pm. I joke with everyone that Brian's wife no doubt misses him and try to get us to go. Half an hour later we're still there...I guess that due to our crazy, busy lives as dedicated teachers, we know that these moments of collaboration are rare and none of us really wants to leave.
5 comments:
That's totally awesome! Our work is so much sweeter when you have supportive collegues behind you. BTW, I agreed to take on my very first student teacher this fall! I hope I have the ability to inspire like so many great teachers out there.
P.S. I'll be in LA all next week. Expect a call!! XOXO
This is a great story =) and just wanted to let you know that I look forward to reading your entries. Te mando un fuerte abrazo!
Jackie, you will love working with a student teacher, not only do you give someone a helping hand, but you also have the opportunity to reflect on your own strengths and weaknesses. Whoever it is will be happy to work with you. Can't wait to see you next week!
Jandra, I miss you girl, keep sending those pics and updates on Mateo, hope you're all doing well.
Teaching is the best! I have been in it for 10 years now (whew! Time flies!) and I still have the same orgullo and amor for it that I had when I first entered a classroom. There is nothing more rewarding. Oh.....and student teachers rock!
Adrienne! Hey mujer, thanks for the post. I really hope to see you again soon. Be sure to check out Norma's blog.
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