Week 8: Strength and Growth from Effort and Struggles

It was just one of those weeks. Week 8 was rightfully a crazy one. No week is ever the same, but oddly, I like it. Although I face struggles and frustrations, I feel blessed with this opportunity to student teach at an outstanding Agriculture/Horticulture program.

Therefore, 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 encouraged me to continue to grow my roots in agriculture education).

High:

This week I was able to sit down with one of the Learning Support teachers at Derry Area High School to discuss some of my students’ needs and accommodations. Recently, I found myself struggling with meeting the needs of all learners in certain classes. I have had the opportunity to attend one IEP meeting; however, I was unaware of specific accommodations for other students beyond the general suggestions given. Therefore the conversation I had with the Learning Support teacher helped me understand some additional teaching strategies that I can utilize within my classes to help accommodate to all my students’ needs. Additionally, I was given a glimpse into the ideas students have for their future careers, so I can connect content to their interest.  I am truly excited to utilize some different strategies that not only help all my students, but allow me to continue to grow in meeting diverse learners. Therefore, this meeting was extremely helpful for me and will continue to be as I move into a job in the future. 

Low:

Unfortunately, my week did not truly begin until Wednesday due to a written message on a bathroom stall that ‘warned’ students not to come to school. Although I was frustrated that we were dismissed from school, I am amazed at the procedures and precautions that were implemented immediately by administration to ensure safety for the students and faculty. On Wednesday morning, we had a faculty meeting lead by our Superintendent and Principle. During the meeting they shared with us the reasoning behind the procedures and precautions, while sharing standards and suggestions of what to do if this event did occur. Additionally since the threat was determined a ‘copycat’ act, they asked us to have a ‘real’ talk with our students about consequences of threatening messages. I am thankful that I have built rapport with my students because I felt I was able to effectively deliver the message. I am hoping I will not have to have another talk like this in my future classroom; however, I feel prepared to take on more ‘real’ talks.

Tip:

“Strength and growth only comes from continuous effort and struggle.” As I shared above, I struggled with meeting the needs of all learners in some of my classes. Therefore I realized that to get stronger in this, I needed to put forth the effort of connecting and discussing with the Learning Support teachers to grow my strategies to engage and involve all learners. I continue to remind myself to have a growth mindset for myself and my students.

Weekly Unique Moments:

Finished up the Plumbing
 Unit by testing Plumbing
Squares

Department Meeting: Not only do I get to attend faculty meetings, but I also get to attend department meetings to add to the authenticity of this experience! After my experience with my first department meeting, I can say I was thankful for AEE 413. There was discussion about Chapter 339, and additional topics that were discussed and covered throughout the course. Because of this basic previous knowledge, I was able to be fully engaged in discussion and decisions of the department.

CDE/LDE Practice: With our chapter contest and local contest quickly approaching, I dedicated my FFA Friday to having team and individual check points. For example, l had all my Creed speakers memorize the first paragraph of the FFA Creed. I am super proud to say that they met the challenge, and showed off their commitment and skills that will prepare them for the upcoming contest. 

New Units: I am super excited to have finished four units this week! It is time to buckle down for next week to prepare for four new units that get students excited and engaged in agriculture.