What Made You Begin a Career Teaching?

What Made You Begin a Career in Teaching?

It's the start of a new school year! For many of us who have taught for years, our mindset may be summer is over and we are going back to work.  For new teachers, the mindset tends to channel the exciting start to a new chapter.  Beginning my 9th year, I love to reflect back on that feeling of starting my first year of teaching and why I chose to be a teacher.  There is power in remembering your purpose, passion, and role in educating young minds daily!

"Know what sparks the light in you; then use that light to illuminate the world!" -Oprah Winfrey

You Are Making A Difference!

Remember when you were in school and you had that one teacher that would greet you with a smile or high five and say good morning each day?  You may not have realized it at the time, but I bet reflecting back you understand how meaningful that small part of the day was.  Each morning we have the opportunity to connect, inspire, and create a positive experience for our students.  We are unaware of what each student experiences in their life before and after school, but in the middle of those time periods is our chance to make a difference in the life of a child every day.  A smile, a lesson, a listening ear, a joke, a positive outlook, and a connection with each individual student is the start of an impactful school year!

"The strength of our student relationships makes the difference in translating 

our passion for teaching into their passion for learning." - Beth Morrow

Making a Positive Connection With Students

1. Send an "About The Teacher" letter home

• Students of any age love learning about their teacher!

2. Have students complete an "All About Me" poster

• Students get a chance to shine by selecting a pointer and sharing orally with the class.

3. Participate in Kagan community and team building activities

• Students get a chance to learn about their classmates in a fun, engaging way!

4. "Student of the Week" Award to incorporate PBIS

• Recognize a new student each week for positive behavior.

Learning and Teaching With a Smile,

Jenna Russ