Full Circle

I had the opportunity this week to observe one of my former teachers!

For my Literacy Assessment class, I had to complete four hours of observation and an interview with any teacher of our choice to assess assessment practices.

I contacted one of my old fifth grade teachers I still talk to, since he offered for me to come in before. He offered for me to come spend the whole day with him, so I could not turn it down!

Things have changed a lot in the school since I have been there. I was super proud that they have incorporated the Common Core into their curriculum! However, my former teacher now teaches only math and science to fourth and fifth graders. He loves social studies, and misses it. He is a STEAM teacher, and the others are literacy teachers. I loved watching the kids experience the class in such different and similar ways. The kids have laptops and Smart Boards, and are very in control of their own learning. I saw some things I liked, and some I wanted to change.

I loved being able to talk to the fifth graders especially, and answer their questions about junior high. I still clearly remember the days of being so nervous and afraid to change schools, so it was so fulfilling to be able to help the kids. They were all so sweet, I wrote them a thank you note I know he will share with them :)

I could not be happier that I chose this teacher to observe. I learn so much, and admire him so greatly. I hope to be a teacher like him someday. In fact, while I was there, a student walked to the front of the room and announced that he decided the teacher won the "best teacher ever award" and handed him a handmade paper trophy. I felt the exact same way about him, so I'm so happy he's the same. I hope I can be as great as him someday!

PS - I passed the State Content test!!