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.

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.

Week 1: Growth Mindset

Before I embarked on my student teaching journey, I participated in #psuaged18 Pre-Service Seminar. Throughout the seminar, my fellow cohort members and I participated in trainings, workshops, and discussions. Although there was a plethora of information and advice presented to us, one piece of advice resonated with me the most throughout my first week of student teaching.

Ms. Hack, agriculture educator at Honesdale High School, shared how we should not compare ourselves to other teachers.  This advice kept echoing in my head throughout this week of observation. Throughout this week, I realized that Mr. Campbell has mastered classroom management, and the content he teaches. In addition, I realized that Mrs. Rippole has mastered the art of creativity and engagement. My mind kept wondering how I was going to ever be like them. Stress and disappointment flooded me with every thought, until I reminded myself to not compare. I am not a Mr. Campbell and I am not a Mrs. Rippole; I am Ms. Wasson.  Like many educators, Mr. Campbell and Mrs. Rippole have had mentors to guide them in becoming a mastery teacher. Therefore, I realized it is okay to not be them because I am here to learn from them as my mentors.

Although there were times of doubt, I made it through week one. Looking back on week one, I'll be sharing a high (some of the best # UndeniablyDerry and other dynamite moments), and a tip (something that I learned or heard that encouraged me to continue to grow my roots in agriculture education).

High

Here is a photo of a student, who is very talented
and skilled  in the shop, demonstrating a butt weld.

This week was critical in building rapport with students. I had the opportunity to meet students this week, and begin to engage in projects with them. All of my students are unique in the sense that they all have different personalities, come from different backgrounds, and have different learning styles and abilities. I knew my classroom would be full of diversity; it just became more apparent to me after the three days of observation. I am excited to see how I can help grow their knowledge and roots in agriculture. Whether I am helping to direct an independent study, coaching a CDE team, or teaching in the classroom, I realize the impact I can have on students. 

Tip

This week has truly allowed for a growth mindset. Not only did I realize that I have a lot to learn, but I learned a lot. It is somewhat scary to take over a classroom from an established and mastery teacher. As the next week approaches, I am full of nerves and excitement. However, we received an email from Dr. Foster that was forwarded from a agricultural educator. In the email it shared the following:

“We all have things that make us uncomfortable...things that are (or lead to) our insecurities. Today, I want you to remember that until you cross the bridge of your insecurities, you can't begin to explore your possibilities.”

This quote made me realizes that my nerves and insecurities are okay! The journey of student teaching has only just begun. I will face some challenges, but I have the ability to change and overcome my insecurities to maximize my student teaching experience.

Recap Other Weekly Unique Moments

Derry FFA Officers and members conducting tours to
8th graders by highlighting Animal Science Pathway

• Watching the Ag Construction class finish up their independent projects. I am excited to see how I can continue to highlight and showcase their talents and skills in the shop.
• Seeing students that I went to convention or other events with, I am excited to continue to build rapport with other students.
• We had the 8^th graders tour our facilities on Friday. It was awesome to see the chapter officers take charge and develop the program for the tours. 

Classroom Managment

The 2018 Student Teacher Candidates have the opportunity to role play different types of student behavior during our contextual lab experiences. In addition, we have learned through Discipline Derby Friday’s that students will test you in multiple ways beyond the 10 behavioral cards presented in lab. In all honesty, it makes me frustrated when I experience or read about bad behavior from students.  However, I realize that these experiences are teachable moments that help prepare us for the time we will spend with our first very own students during student teaching; however, a lot of our "preparation" comes from readings and conversations with seasoned educators. As the countdown for final presentations begins, this week’s weekly investment reading on classroom management was extremely insightful.

Start Out Firm

When asked how to implement classroom management techniques, almost every seasoned educator will share that you have to be firm. Additionally, they share how you cannot expect students to rise to higher standards after they have been able to get by with lower standards. This reminds me of when the 2018 Student Teacher Candidates talked about the first day of school and how unbelievably crucial that first day is for laying the way for your classroom expectations, procedures and consequences. Therefore, I have to be firm when presenting them, and prepared to hold my students to them.

Build Rapport

We talk frequently about building a rapport with our students. With these conversations we have come to the conclusion that to gain respect, you have to give it. As teachers we must listen, evaluate, and then act rather than jumping on students before they have had a chance to adequately explain a situation.

If I am working to build my students up, to keep striving to be the best version of them, my classroom culture and student behavior will surely be more positive.

Promoting Positive Behavior

Praise is a good thing when building a positive classroom. Think about it, if we as teachers were present negative talk, our students will be less likely to be engaged in our lessons, due to fear. Therefore, it is essential to praise and reinforce the positive behavior you want to see in your classroom.  However, be cautious not to over praise because it can cause backwards growth in classroom management. Aim for the middle ground (sweet spot), so that your expectations continue to be high!

Although, I did not touch on all of these. This Puzzle reinforces
classroom management from Methods of Teaching Agriculture. 

Overall, I want my students to know that I may hold them to a high expectation, but that is because I know they are more than capable of achieving this. I have realized by starting out firm, building rapport and promoting positive behavior will allow me to achieve this and good classroom management.

References: 

Newcomb, L.H., McCracken, J.D., Warmbrod, J.R., & Whittington, M.S. (1993). Methods of teaching agriculture. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Pearson Prentice Hall.

Wong, H.K. & Wong, R.T. (2009). The first days of school: How to be an effective teacher (4th ed.). Mountain View: Harry K. Wong Publications, Inc.