Closing up shop...for now (online reflection #6)

PROLOGUE

The time is here. My project is done. All those hours working at the workbench...fulfilled. I can put those tools away...at least for now. There’s another project coming up, a bigger one, but let’s take a moment to reflect on this one: the one you will soon take on. No need to fret though, I can see you are a hard worker. I mean, by reading this, you’ve already won the battle mentally. You’ve decided this is what you are going to do. And trust me, you will do it. You will look on your project just like I am and smile, lips expanding, teeth showing.

            Now, before I go, it’s time to impart some pedagogical wisdom. This list will help you as you venture on with your project. 

BEING EFFECTIVE ON THE PROJECT

            1. Reflect on who you are. As a pre-service teacher, you are going to encounter varying degrees of educational styles and philosophies. By being authentic with who you are, make sure you abide by what you find authentic to your style of teaching. Don’t let this point sway you from experimentation however. In fact, experimenting is vital in cultivating your style. Although, take the time to evaluate who you are, what works, and how you wish to teach. At this point, I know you might not know how you wish to teach, but trust me, you have an inclination. Reflect on your teaching, your MT’s teaching, and the teachers around you. Reflect on who you are, and how you wish to carry out your classroom presence.

            2. Utilize your whole workbench. You are going to be delving into an authentic environment where every resource available will help you be an effective teacher. From manipulatives on classroom walls, to unit plans saved on your MT’s computer, resources will be your best friend when you finish this project. Also, keep in mind your MT during this time. They will not only help you develop your master blue-print, but, they will foster your progress, guiding your hammer to the nail every time.    

            3. Stay confident/motivated.  You know what you are doing. You are a teacher. Don’t let the title of pre-service teacher get you down. Wash any potential stigmas away and rise above. You have all the right tools. You know what you are doing, even when you think you don’t.

            4. Respect the project. You are being invited into a school that is going to give you everything it quite possibly can: a place that is going to set you up for your next big project. It is important to stay respectful to everybody on the job. Don’t feed into the proverbial, tempting serpent of gossip. Stay focused on the project.

            5. Know when to put the tools away for a bit. The project is no easy task. I call them “projects” because they go through varying levels of completion, some harder and some easier. With that in mind, it is important to take time for yourself. Put those tools away at times and clear your mind. Stay active though. Don’t allow thoughts of complacency to infiltrate your mind. Don’t get lost in the time away from your project: remember it is still there. However, know when to distance yourself for the sake of family, friends, a good book, or that new show on CBS.

            6. Remind yourself. I am here. I am a teacher.

A RETROSPECT

As I look back on my experience as a pre-service teacher, I would say the biggest thing I would have done differently is take more chances. To be honest, you will find yourself playing it safe many times during your teaching. Whether this be in finding a safe lesson planning rhythm or not taking the extra time for other considerations, playing it safe will hinder your pedagogical growth. It wasn’t until I finally realized that I wasn’t planning my lessons for myself, but instead,  for my students that the cathartic switch flicked on in my brain and I became more aware of differentiating what I was doing for their benefit. If anything, get to know your students and their learning styles. It’s the most valuable thing you can ever do as a teacher.

            As for the program at WSU, the biggest asset you will ever come across as a prospective teacher is Dr. Katie Cramer. Not only is she a beacon of hope for education, but, she will keep your passion for educating alive. From being under her guidance, she has given me the skills and tools to be an effective, critical, reflective, genial, and compassionate teacher. I owe a big thanks to her, just like you will, when you get to the end of your project. Thank you, Dr. Cramer. Remember those words: Thank you, Dr. Cramer. I would start practicing them now.

            In terms of changes to the program, I don’t have any. Although, I will make pertinent insights for your success in this program:

            1. Get to know your classmates.

            2. Respect your classmates.

            The people I’ve met on this journey to completion will forever hold a special place to me.  The people in your collective will do the same. Remember, teaching is all about building positive learning communities. Communities ripe with empathy, love, and respect. Abide by these insights and your experience will be amazing.

EPILOGUE

            Wow, I’m here. I’ve packed my last tool up and it’s time to close shop. At least for now. I’m moving on to the bigger project. I’m a little nervous, but I’m ready. Just like you are now.

            You are ready.

            You are a teacher.

                                                                                                                        Warm Regards,

                                                                                                                        Ashton Pacholski