Week 7 - Fulfillment from Helping Others

I am in denial that I am halfway done with this student teaching internship; it does not even seem real. No doubt, it will get harder before it gets easier. My class load just hit maximum capacity; therefore, preparation and classroom management is the key to survival. On an exciting note, we celebrated National FFA Week this week!

Emphasizing "Living to Service"  during National FFA Week

This week made me realize how fulfillment comes from helping others. Of course, I will share a HIGH (some of the best #UndeniablyDerry and other dynamite moments), a LOW (something I wish was better, but can’t change so I learn to grow from the experience), and a TIP (something that I learned or heard that encouraged me to continue to grow my roots in agriculture education).

High:

As I shared above, I hit maximum capacity on my teaching schedule. I am officially teaching all seven classes. However, I am also excited because I get to begin new units in my other classes (FINALLY!). Pacing was something I struggled with at the beginning of this experience, which is why I am now a firm believer in holding students to high standards and pushing them to focus. Here's what I've learned about pacing, sometimes students don't appreciate the pushing. As we neared the end of our Plumbing unit in my Agriculture Construction class, this week has been full of fast pace movement. I was very worried that many students were not going to meet the Friday deadline. Yet, I stood firm with my deadline, and my heart smiled big time when I had ALL 16 plumbing squares sitting on the turn-in table Friday. It seemed that my constant pushing had paid off, and I am proud of these students.

Low:

Not only am I halfway through this experience, but I am halfway through the third semester with my students. Unfortunately this meant I had to hand out progress reports to any student that had below a 70%. To say the least, I was frustrated with how many students seemed like they did not care about school or their grades. Yet, I decided not to come in the next day with this frustration. Instead I handed out the progress reports, and I shared that if anyone had a question or wanted to discuss their grade that I was available after class to talk. However, I did not believe any of these students would actually care enough to confront me about saving their grade … Of course, I was proven wrong! After I dismissed class, I realized one of my most difficult students was standing beside my desk. He looked at me and said, “Ms. Wasson I want to do better, but I don’t know how.” I was astounded at this comment; I reacted by stating, “I know you can.” He then continued to share a little bit about his home life with me, and I was about in tears. To share the least, he comes from a split home, and works night shift to support the household. I realized this was a BREAK THROUGH MOMENT. Therefore after he shared his story, I wanted to help him be as successful as possible. We discussed how he could make up work for previous projects and homework during the scheduled Homeroom time, so it would not require time outside of school. Again, I am just amazed how my students continue to conquer the challenges they face, but take action to ensure a better life. If I can help them the slightest, I feel that I am creating hope to spark brighter futures.

Tip:

“Sooner or later, you realize that real fulfillment comes from helping others. All of the rest is just temporary.” After my break through moment with my student that I shared above, I realized that this quote describes why being a teacher is so fulfilling.

Weekly Unique Moments:

Demonstrating how to restrain a rabbit

Warmer Weather – We hit 75 degrees for three days at the beginning of the week. With anxious students, I took advantage of the outdoors and moved class outside. For example, in my Small Animal Science class we went out to the barn and practiced rabbit handling. Flexibility is key in this profession.

Students unloaded the delivery truck

Food Bank – On Wednesday, Derry FFA packed up three vans of members to volunteer at Westmoreland County Food Bank for a day of service. I was saddened when I noticed a few of our members stating “Hi Mom/Dad” as a parent walked through the line to receive food. Again, I was reminded of the struggles my students face, but know that they have the ability to create better days.

Chapter President sharing how the AG/Hort program
impacted her time at Derry Area High School

Teacher Appreciation Breakfast – Our officers spoke at our Teacher Appreciation Breakfast, and I was amazed with their reflections on how the Agriculture/Horticulture Program impacted their life. Not only was each reflection unique, but many shared a common theme. That common theme was centered on the concept of ‘home’. Each officer shared why they joined the Agriculture/Horticulture, but what made them stay was the creation of a family and home. Although they all had different paths getting there, they each found their way HOME.