Day 3 asks for areas that I can improve on... if you have any suggestions or if you feel the same way please don't hesistate to comment. Thanks for watching!
These days, I think burn out is on everyone's mind. More is asked, less time is given. For me, the stress comes when I'm working on something for which I don't directly see the benefit to students or something I don't feel I'm particularly good at. I do get rejuvenation from discussing new ideas, but I get frustrated again when there is no time to implement those concepts.
AGREED!!! I find myself in the habit of stretching myself too thin... thus, not being able to complete everything to a level that I would expect... which causes frustration. I really thought that I would have more time to spend on lessons and IEPs this year with student council not being on my plate. Not the case. I have volunteered for other things and taken on new challenges. I always think to myself that I need to take a step back... but I've come to the conclusion it just wouldn't feel right. I am always encouraging my students to give their best and to take risks--it's only fair if I set the example. :) At least that's what I'm telling myself as I'm sitting here writing IEPs on my spring break!
I think you totally hit on an area that college never prepared me for, and that is the handling of stress. few people in the private sector have any clear realization as to how stressful it is to work with children all day. Without a definite approach that works for you, it can burn a person out. I've seen colleagues burn out around me, and I've seen others go to retirement with as much energy as they started with. The key I see so far, is that those people with energy don't necessarily hold back, but they come up with an approach that works for them to deal with the stress. Some organize their every move, some shoot from the hip, some focus on maintaining patience, and others use humor. Whatever we use, I agree that it is the fear of most good teachers who feel the same way you do.
For the last 30 days, I have been answering one reflection question each day and I have learned so much about myself as an educator. Whether you are a veteran blogger or brand new to blogging, I invite you to take this challenge. Video tape or write your answers to each of the reflection questions and share it with your PLN. Here are the questions that I came up with. Are you ready to take the challenge? 30-Day Blog Challenge Day 1: How did you decide to become a teacher? Day 2: What do you believe is your greatest strength as a teacher? Day 3: In which area do you think you can improve the most? Day 4: What were you most worried about as you approached your first day as a teacher? Day 5: How do you keep your classroom organized? Day 6: What have you observed of other teachers that might work in your own classroom? Day 7: How can you best promote responsibility in your students? Day 8: How do you connect with your students? Day 9: What do you want out of the “Staff
Okay along with my 30 day reflection videos I do want to use this blog for sharing my ideas and collaborating. I was just telling my students that we live in a "global community" and I started thinking that I could collaborate with great teachers from all over. I have been researching a lot about standards based grading and I think it is the right thing for my classes. I have been reading books on grading and my eyes have really opened. My grade book used to be filled with all homework assignments and assessments. This doesn't tell anyone what the students actually came away with. I know that I need to change how I have been doing things and I know that it is best for my students.
Today's question was: How do you create a classroom where every student feels included and valuable? I can't tell you how important building relationships are in education.
These days, I think burn out is on everyone's mind. More is asked, less time is given. For me, the stress comes when I'm working on something for which I don't directly see the benefit to students or something I don't feel I'm particularly good at. I do get rejuvenation from discussing new ideas, but I get frustrated again when there is no time to implement those concepts.
ReplyDeleteAGREED!!! I find myself in the habit of stretching myself too thin... thus, not being able to complete everything to a level that I would expect... which causes frustration. I really thought that I would have more time to spend on lessons and IEPs this year with student council not being on my plate. Not the case. I have volunteered for other things and taken on new challenges. I always think to myself that I need to take a step back... but I've come to the conclusion it just wouldn't feel right. I am always encouraging my students to give their best and to take risks--it's only fair if I set the example. :) At least that's what I'm telling myself as I'm sitting here writing IEPs on my spring break!
ReplyDeleteI think you totally hit on an area that college never prepared me for, and that is the handling of stress. few people in the private sector have any clear realization as to how stressful it is to work with children all day. Without a definite approach that works for you, it can burn a person out. I've seen colleagues burn out around me, and I've seen others go to retirement with as much energy as they started with. The key I see so far, is that those people with energy don't necessarily hold back, but they come up with an approach that works for them to deal with the stress. Some organize their every move, some shoot from the hip, some focus on maintaining patience, and others use humor. Whatever we use, I agree that it is the fear of most good teachers who feel the same way you do.
ReplyDelete