Week 2 Reflection

8/25 - Monday
Today was the last preparation before classes start on Tuesday. Today we spent most of our time cleaning and arranging the room. I also was able to spend time working on an excel sheet outlining student information. Though this was only a simple piece of paper, it helped me learn a great deal about my students without meeting them first. After school the other interns and I went to my coordinators house for dinner and a driving tour of Mannington. The driving tour was very fascinating. It is nice to be able to see where Blackshere students come from. The tour has helped me brainstorm multiple ways that I can attempt to relate materials to their everyday lives. After dinner, Blackshere held an open house for all students. Overall, there were many students that came to find out what class they were going to be in. I was only able to see two of my future students but it was nice getting to meet their parents.

8/26 - Tuesday
Today was the first day of school at Blackshere Elementary. Since it is the first week we spent a great deal of time finding out who was going to be pulled out in the afternoon for math and who wouldn't. My host teacher also decided that it would be best for the students to get comfortable in their new environments so we did not pull out any students. Instead I spent this time preparing for two of the next class periods. Four of the classes that I will be observing and teaching are co-teaching situations in the regular classroom. Today we were able to go into these rooms, meet all the students, and help out wherever possible. In the afternoon we decided to pull out the third grade students and did a brief assessment of their current abilities. I am looking forward to continue to get to know my students and help them progress in life.

8/28 - Thursday
Thursday was the third day of school and ran alot smoother than the others. I really enjoy being able to go into the different classrooms and co-teach. I am able to see so much diversity in students and teaching styles that I believe I will benefit greatly. I was supposed to attend my first IEP meeting today, however, the parent came early, while I was still with a reading group. I was looking forward to the meeting but I know I will get many more opportunities. I am already getting to know my students much better and where they will most need help during the general education setting.

8/29 - Friday
Even though school has only been in session for four days, I feel as if I am getting to know my students much better, not only their ability level, but also their personalities. In our class we have begun to implement more of the one on one instruction that one student constantly needs in her third grade classroom. It is difficult to have one child in a class that is unable to perform at or near the other students ability level. Thankfully, I have been able to observe my host teacher implement some creative ideas on how to keep her involved, yet learning things that are appropriate for her level. I was also asked today to participate in the sponge throwing event which serves as an incentive to read. I am looking forward to this event and becoming even more involved in the school community.