My first week, I quickly learned that I knew little to nothing! It was like a Tasmanian devil had gone off in my classroom and laid waste to all my hard work. Those 4th graders didn't care how long I prepared for them or that I spent all my money on those supplies. They didn't have any respect for that degree on the wall that cost me tens of thousands of dollars. They were definitely not sitting in their chairs with their hands in their laps ready to learn all the great and wonderful things I wanted to teach them. One student even looked at me and said, "Why should I listen to you?"
With all the indignation I could muster I said, "Because I am the TEACHER!" There that should put him in his place! He shrugged his shoulders and replied, "This is my 17th school since Kindergarten. I have had so many teachers I don't even remember any of them. My family will move again, like we always do, so I ain't even gonna waste my time getting to know you or listen to what you have to say."
I went home feeling like an utter failure, the wind taken out of my sails. My "change the world" attitude soon became "just let me survive"! I did get through my first year, barely. And I have continued to teach all different ages from preschool, to elementary, to middle school special education, and even adults in prison. But my arrogance quickly turned into humbleness. My imparting knowledge to my students instead became learning about them. My wisdom was not from my college degree but came from listening when the kids talked and more importantly trying to understand when they couldn't put their feelings into words. Instead of inspiring my students, they inspired me by overcoming obstacles that would have knocked most adults on their butt.
Other things I learned:
Don't assume you know anything about a child from just what you see on the outside. This will make you look foolish because many things can be covered up with cute clothes and a tidy haircut. Greatness and beauty can be hidden underneath dirt and a bad attitude.
Don't be quick to label. A label can follow a child around for a lifetime and place them in a box that defines them instead of being defined by who they are as a person and a unique human being.
Listen first. Kids have so many interesting things to say. Most of them don't have a voice outside of school. This could be his or her only opportunity to feel like someone is paying attention.
Watch closely. Kids don’t always have the vocabulary to explain what is going on inside. They are not mini adults. They are children who need help interpreting the world around them. Actions speak louder than words.
Don't stop believing that EVERY child is worthy! Every child deserves respect. Every child can learn even the ones who seem beyond hope! It's about progress not perfection. Look deeper for the each student's strengths.
Your words are powerful! Words can either build up or destroy. Be careful what you say about your students. Remember they are somebody's baby. Parents trust you with their most precious treasure for 6 hours a day. Don't take this lightly by being reckless with your words when talking about a child.
Don't point fingers at parents, the school, the administration, the educational system or whatever else you think is THE problem with education. Complaining and blaming don't work towards solutions. They drag everybody down. Be the change you want to see and make a difference in your classroom.
Finally, get ready for the ride of a lifetime! You will have many ups and downs but it's worth it all when you see some of your students 5, 10, 15 years later and know you had a small part in their journey!
