I've spent the last eight years in the classroom teaching kids. I feel teaching has been a calling for me, something that I was led to and find great fulfillment from doing.
But this week, I began work on another life dream -- teaching other people who want to be teachers.
The university where I did my certification and master's work has hired me as an adjunct instructor in their teacher prep program. I am teaching Classroom Management, one of my favorite courses while I was in their program.
Tuesday night was my first class.
It was AMAZING!
Being able to share what I have learned so far about teaching, building student connections, growth mindset, classroom community, doing what's right for kids, research, how to handle challenging students, team building, remaining a lifelong learner and more was like .... coming full circle.
Ten years ago, I sat where these students sat. And now I am teaching them. I am continuing to learn along with them. I will learn from them just as they (hopefully) will learn from me.
And excitement.
And hope.
For this opportunity, I celebrate.
Hi Jennifer-I was an adjunct for 12 years and loved it, too! I taught Seminar in Student Teaching while my interns were doing their student teaching. I helped them create their portfolios while also sharing what it's really like in the classroom from day to day. You will love being with "little kids" all day, then teaching "grown-up kids" at night! I loved the conversations and felt like I made a difference in their career. I also think classroom teachers bring the real and raw perspective that is sometimes missing for these folks.
ReplyDeleteJennifer, I feel your joy and your positivity. I am happy that you have this opportunity. Last summer, I taught my first graduate summer institute and was in love with the whole graduate school teaching experience. I am sure that your students will benefit from your positive thinking attitude. Enjoy the experience.
ReplyDeleteI am so proud of you! I have been teaching for 30+ years but have never taught adults. It scares me! Good luck and thanks for sharing.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your time with these adult learners. They are so lucky to have YOU teaching this course, someone who brings such zest and passion to the teaching of classroom management.
ReplyDeleteHooray Jennifer! I am so impressed that your university hired experienced teachers. LOVE that for you as well as your new students. Can't wait to follow your journey.
ReplyDeleteYay for you! Megan and I have had many conversations on the importance of having recently-in-the-classroom professors in teacher prep programs. So many are so out of touch with education in today's world. Your soon-to-be-teacher students are lucky to have you!
ReplyDeleteWhat an incredible experience - so powerful to be able to share your passion and your experience with the next generation of educators! Good luck, and enjoy!
ReplyDeleteSo impressed! I love how excited and enthused you are. Lucky, lucky students.
ReplyDeleteSo wonderful! How blessed are your students!? *secretly wishing I was one* I know you will make an impact on their lives and in turn, all the little lives that they will teach. Best wishes!
ReplyDeleteSounds like an exciting opportunity and a gift for your students to learn about classroom management from an experienced teacher. I have always wondered about mentoring by being an adjunct instructor upon retirement. I will be interested to hear more about your class.
ReplyDeleteHow wonderful! A new chapter in your life will bring many new experiences and opportunities for you. Congratulations!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on reaching another goal in your career! Your class will be the one the students want to attend because you have such a wealth of knowledge from the "field." Way to go Jennifer!
ReplyDeleteIt's a whole different look when working with adults. Congratulations on confirming your dream, Jennifer. I hear your excitement and pride! And I'm happy that your first night went well.
ReplyDeleteI am so excited for you! What an honor and well-deserved position for your and your "big learners". Definitely a reason to celebrate!
ReplyDeleteCongrats Jen! Glad to have you on staff
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