Another good meeting - started an hour late due to a conflict, but everyone was able to make it and stay for at least 20 minutes - most for the entire time. We mostly discussed first year teacher stuff. Pencils, pens, erasers, organizing, discipline, and finding a mentor, and working with administration. We weren't exactly on topic as far as ELL, but I think it was agreed, that this was a very useful and productive meeting for them. e spent another hour together when I called it a night as it was 11 pm EST.
From a learning perspective, I guess the most I can personally say is that I can see how I have grown since my first year, and how much there really is that is left undone in the teacher education process. On the other hand, it is not really possible to make someone organize for a classroom full of students until they have one. I think, looking back on it, the thing I relied on most was my mentor teacher, and it was the one thing I tried to really impress upo th group was to find one even if you don't have to.
What an excellent discussion to have with the group. They will really remember your comments - you have helped them! Faculty do not make time for these kind of discussions, and it may be their only exposure to this type of advice.
ReplyDelete