I Tip My Hat to All Teachers Everywhere!

In class this week, we worked on a case study dealing with a teacher assessing her students in her classroom. This teacher worked hard to help provide help for those students that might be falling a behind academically. As a group, we worked together to determine what assessments she used. As the case study went on, we learned that one girl in particular seemed to be behind when compared to her peers. We talked about what might be the next step the teacher should take to help make sure that this girl receives the best possible help without putting her at more risk of embarrassment or shame. The rest of our class time was spent on this part of the case study. As we talked, my team expressed the need of speaking with the girl's parents to help better understand the child. We talked about doing more assessments, such as probes, to gain more insight on where she is academically. We also talked about looking for outside help to come in and observe, such as help from a special education teacher. During this time, thoughts came into my mind of just how difficult it is to be a teacher. Before this class, I had no idea how much time and work goes into teaching. (SIDE NOTE: I am not a teaching major, so I have not had a lot of classes like this one.) They work so hard not only coming up with lessons and classroom designs, but then to have to worry about each and every child on an individual basis. My heart is tender for all teachers. They work so hard and care so much. I cannot imagine the responsibility that goes with teaching, but I do know that I will always remember this lesson and appreciate teachers more. I tip my hat off to all teachers, and especially the ones that taught and sacrificed for me.