The first week of teaching is over, and I'm reflecting on how it went. Over the years, I have had lots of energy, ideas and been able to apply creative strategies especially in the first two or three weeks. Then, as the term progresses into the dark days of winter, routine has tended to set in, the tasks have become predictable and prescribed by the curriculum and my energy level somewhat flattened.
This year is no exception as to the first part of the pattern. Week one was fresh and engaging. The students were surprised each day with different teaching strategies. I tried to establish rapport, smile a lot and interweave deskwork with interactive activities. There were new visuals around the room. I got acquainted with the students individually through reading their bios.
How will I maintain this positive engagement throughout the term? I think the answer lies in my personal life, how I pace myself, maintain margin for socializing, exercise, couple and family time. I enjoy my students. I want to keep engaging them in fresh and meaningful ways. Will I have it in me to keep the wellsprings flowing?
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It most certainly must be challenging to keep that first burst of excitment that beginnings tend to have throughout the school year. Perhaps we all must look at each day as a new beginning and a gift. I myself struggle with the ordinary that seems to take over one's life as the newness of beginning wears off. If we looked for the excitement that each day brings would that keep us more engaged? I think as educators we must do our part to ensure that we provide positive engagement opportunities for our students but students themselves also realize that they have a responsibility as well. We can only engage those that want to be engaged. But by ensuring our 'outside the classroom' lives are full and enriching, that may provide the momentum to face each day with renewed vigor and excitement. Of course inevitably the newness of a beginning gives way to the sadness of an end. But I suppose that is a different topic all together!
ReplyDeleteI think this is an issue that confronts not only teachers, but every human being who has consistent, “predictable” patterns in their lives. Some patterns come hidden within employment, some come packaged in long term relationships while others simply fall into place under the heading of “lifestyle choices”. It is rare that the newness and excitement level can remain high in many of these situations. What is key is to discover beauty in the familiar and to celebrate the positive changes and growth around you.
ReplyDeleteIn order to engage others one must be self-engaged and satisfied with who they are and what they are pursuing in life. This means a happy, healthy balance in one’s own life. The proper balance will be determined by each individual and should be pursued vigorously. Once your own life is fulfilling, it is only natural that you become and continue to be engaging to others and engaged with others.
We need to take the time to truly get to know those around us….their interests, likes, dislike, irrational fears. All the things that make that person who they are. Taking the time to discover the seemingly small things in life can lead to some pretty terrific and wonderful moments. Enjoy the people you are with and the place you are in. Keep your feet and mind moving forward but enjoy the present.
It's the work life balance problem. I know what it is to come close to burn out. Fortunately, I haven't crossed the threshold into Valhalla, chronic fatigue. I have heard stories.
ReplyDeleteI like your reference to family time. However, what about God intimacy? I think out students also need people who flow out of the energy that comes from the Spirit of God. I mean individuals who are naturally supernatural.
Balancing life in general is one of my biggest challenges. I give up one for the other and the pattern repeats over and over again until I become resentful. The only thing that keeps me stable is my belief in God; and this too often becomes a challenge; but it’s the only phenomenon that keeps me grounded.
ReplyDeleteRob I often reflect on the following…..remember as you instruct, the God that lives in you, greets and corresponds with the same God that lives in your students. We are unique individuals but yet, our souls; our spirits’ are direct blueprints of the divine God. If we disconnect from this reality; from ourselves, the opportunity for spiritual connectedness vanishes. If we sustain this reality and remember that He is the bridge, who provides a link, a connection between “you” and “them” , then healthy, secure relationships are born.
Remember Mathew 6 and 33 it reads….
“but seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these thing shall be added unto you”
Put God first and He’ll create the balance you will need to succeed. How do we put God first and honour Him with our time? Read the bible, pray, speak the Word, Journal, read inspirational books and set aside worship time.
After reading this I agree that setting the tone of the class is very important the first week of school. Everyone, including the teacher is excited and anticipating what the new year will hold and develop. I have too wondered how do you keep the class "fresh" so to speak when it come to teaching and keeping the students engaged and excited. But, say that, I hope that I will have an enthusiasm for learning that is evident most days of not ideally everyday. I hope that I will have a great relation with my colleagues and my teaching partner and be able to chat and trade off ideas on a regular basis and hopefully be accountable to each other if we see the other dragging a bit or looking like the world is about to implode.
ReplyDeleteBut, I guess I will have to be realistic and know that I will have bad days and so will my students. I hope there will be a level of comfort and security that will allow for a student to share when they are not having a good day and as a class we can be aware of it and act accordingly. (good morning circle time with primary)
I appreciate your comment about keeping a balance between home and school (home including family). I feel that balance is always ideal and I hope (with trial and error) I will find that balance so that I am a great teacher and a great family person too.