Teaching is the easy part.....

Packets for absent students, replacing missing assignments, handling late work, dealing with incomplete homework, answering emails, considering new procedures, adding new initiatives, grading papers, recording grades, trying to determine whether to repeat or move on, duties, duties, duties......lesson planning, parent newsletter, class website, communication, thank you notes, overseeing aides, knowing who needs which accommodations.......as my co-teacher, said last week, "having you do all the teaching makes me wonder how on earth I found the time to do all this - no wonder I was always a little behind."  I don't know how any person manages such a huge job description, and yet we do.  Teaching and engaging students should clearly be the focus - yet that truly feels like the easy part.  

After one week of full time teaching, the lessons have been huge.  Here are some of my wise words to me:

• You can't over plan.
• Some kids can handle change - others can't.
• You can't let the busy-work take priority.
• It would be easy to do nothing but 'be a teacher'.  The work is never done.
• Administration can change your job with one small decision.
• You have to always stay positive,
• The kids will always end up making things worthwhile.
• Nothing beats surprising a student with a thank you note.
• You need to spend time practicing any new procedures.
• One class will 'get it', but another one won't.
• Every day brings challenge, each day brings joy.
• It truly is all about the kids - never, ever forget that.

As I reflect upon the experiences last week, I realize just how much there will always be to learn.  My craft can always be bettered, strategies always improved, options always increased.  I need to always remember to concentrate on THAT and ensure that I never lose sight of what is important as I no doubt get caught up in the minutiae of required duties and paperwork.

As I write this, it is Saturday morning.  That means that it is time to get to work on next week's plans.  What can I do to help the kids learn next week?  What can I do to make sure that my students are engaged, positive, supportive, and informed next week?  

Let the planning begin!

Lesson Planning Flow Chart

Image taken from https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3305/5807299569_02627eb5a2.jpg