for challenging times. Amidst a global pandemic, perseverance and resiliency are more important than ever and essential for me as a teacher to promote.
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classroom. We made independent and socially distanced transitions, taking on and off masks, sanitizing stations, and activities. Usual grade 1 / 2 activities such as rotating centers and hands-on activities had to be put on pause until we could gather enough individual materials. This experience truly opened my eyes to the vast amount of work that teachers do before school even begins, and the thought and effort put into every activity.
One of the highlights of my practicum has been working with a little boy diagnosed with ASD, ADHD, a communication delay, and ELL. While he may be all of these things and a challenging student to have in the class, to me he is funny, stubborn, a yogi, smart, curious, and loving. When he first came into the classroom, he echoed everything that was said, screamed through songs, and often became so frustrated with not communicating his needs that would push and cry. Now, this little boy can follow routines, teach the class yoga, participate in smart board activities, write from the board independently (when he wants to!), smiles and dances with us, and is beginning to use more and more words (TQS 4e, p.6).
After such a long break due to Covid-19, my students have been excited and anxious to return to school. I have had a student look up and ask, "do I get to come back to school tomorrow?" revealing the anxieties that schools' sudden closure has caused. I've also seen students demonstrating behaviours and having a tough time adjusting to the school's routine again. Something that my Teacher Mentor has been showing me is the importance of a hook.
I am so grateful to my teacher mentor, her teaching team, and my principal, for welcoming me into such a wonderful community amid a time of uncertainty and chaos. My PSII was cut short by a worldwide pandemic and the closure of Alberta schools. Before receiving my placement, I was worried about finding a position for my final teaching practicum. Thankfully, the fantastic staff at Penbrooke Meadows have been welcoming, kind, reassuring, and supportive. I am excited to meet our students and to welcome them back to school! Even with all of the changes and requirements, I am confident in our ability to make every student feel welcome, loved, and that they belong here because they do! |
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December 2020
Abigail MartinWelcome to my PSIII blog. Here I have documented my learning experiences as an Intern Teacher in a grade 1/2 classroom at Penbrooke Meadows Elementary with the CBE. If you would like to find out more about me and my teaching philosophy, click below. |