Wow,
It's been a little over 2 years since I've posted on this blog. For good reason though! Let's see...I moved out of Chicago, got a new job, and oh yeah, got married and now have a husband and step son! Yes, that has been occupying my time. To get caught up:
I have now been at the same school for 2 years. I am teaching elementary, grades 1-5. Music. There have been so many highs and lows...as usual in this profession. My first year was tough. This is a school that most teachers are tenured, have been there a long time, do things a certain way, have a clique they talk with, etc. I initially came in as a year sub for the music teacher. She thankfully lent me her "bible" of lessons from the previous year. Keep in mind this teacher was tenured, was there for 5+ years, and had it down! Everyone loved her, including the students. It was a difficult transition, but the students were eventually receptive. I collaborated with her bible and used pieces of 'her' in my lessons. Soon students realized I was just like her...but way cooler:).
The teachers were another feat. I remember going to the teachers lounge during lunch and either feeling alienated or put on the spot. There seemed to be no give or take! Anyone that knows me understands it takes a while for me to open up. I tend to be the quiet observer at first. However, things got much better with the teachers and my first year was a success.
Now onto my second year. Now. There are a few things that are different: I know the students names! I have a routine and system down! Students are understanding my personality and teaching style! I am 'upping' the standards in my room!
My school is over 50% impoverished. I'm working with the most diverse group of students ever. We have a STARS program (Autistic students) and a SKILLS program ( students with emotional disabilities).
I am dealing with staff who doesn't appreciate me voicing my opinion. There aren't enough resources or time. Students are coming in with little to no parental support.
I love my job. I feel like I can still make a difference. Even though I teach music, I also teach life lessons to my students everyday. I use technology for learning. I pose learning in a way students can understand. I feel that I am inspiring students. I KNOW they are inspiring me. I love my job. and I love working with the youth. It is the most tasking and tiring job in the world, but I would never give it up. I feel now, more than ever, that us, teachers are so important. I urge teachers to understand their role. It's not just about content or tests, it's about life lessons...manners, interactions with adults/peers, how to understand different roles to take amongst school, play, family, friends. It's all so important!!!
I feel it's my duty to TRY and teach these kids how to be decent and well mannered members of society...
Unfortunately, there are some teachers who say, "Eh, you're a newbie, wait till you've been at it a few more years." "Who do you think you are? We don't have time for this!!!"
To them I say, "Please tell me when things changed for you. Please give me a warning so I can re-evaluate my own self and still know I am perfectly and utterly content being a teacher."
Now that I've finally started writing again, I cannot wait to get into specifics about the rest of this year. There 's a few things happening:
3rd Grade Musical
Honor Choir
5th Grade Drumline or Keyboard (whichever I have more money to do)
Continuous Reflections on Teaching
It feels so good to write again and I thank you for reading. Stay tuned for more of my Music Mayhem blog. I promise I'll write soon!
