Past Four Months

Officially done.

I have been done for about a week. I figured it would be a fantastic time to actually write a blog; throughout student teaching, I never really had the chance to sit down and write.

I have grown as a person, but even more so as a teacher. One of the most difficult parts, while student teaching, was not knowing if I was truly making a difference in (at least) one life. Although I created a 118 page (single spaced) analysis of my positive impact on student learning, I saw that I did create a huge impact on their knowledge about Hamlet, but I was curious to know whether I impacted a life. I know that I will not make student love English-- some won't and I am okay with that. But, I want to make a difference in helping, lighting that single flame, inspiring, guiding, or whatever it is... I want to make that difference.

Throughout student teaching I was able to quickly connect with students. Dave and Molly (cooperating teachers) were impressed with how much the student took to me. Normally, the students rebel against the student teachers for various reasons, but the students respected me and from what Molly and Dave observed they liked me (yay). Because I am teaching English, students open up through writing. Let me tell you, some of what the students shared was deep and meaningful to them-- I learned a lot about these seniors (also the juniors, but not as much). On my last day, I never realized as to how difficult it was going to be to say goodbye. I received some notes from students, hugs, parties, and little thank you's in different ways. One student I had been struggling with the entire semester, for him, made the smallest gesture, but that little gesture made me fee so good to know that he respected me and was thanking me. The little gesture was putting up the chairs at the end of the day-- the chairs that are normally left down for me to put up since students were in class or students didn't want to put them up. Needless to say, when he started putting up those chairs, I had to do a double take because I was shocked.

Anyways... here are some of the letters I receieved:

Ms. Curtiss,
You have been such a great teacher, and an even better friend. I am so glad that you were able to be here for the class and I felt extremely close and comfortable with yo. You are an inspiration and mentor in my eyes. I am so grateful to be able, and priveleged, to have you in my life. Although only for a short time, the impact is immense. I want you to know that you are a young woman with a great career ahead of you. Your passion and drive in helping students, makes others WANT to learn. I know that I am not the only one you have changed. Your great personality and happy smile all day, everyday, is such a great, great thing to have. Thank you for showing me even more that I can do what I want, and never settle for less. Ms. Curtiss, I thank you! Keep in touch, please-- I may need your help in the future in college. Thank you so much again! Best of luck!

Ms. Curtiss,
I just wanted to thank you. This has definitely been my all time favorite class and a lot of it is thanks to you. English has always been a favorite of mine, but I've never had a class like this. Everyday I came to school and I was excited for this class, and being a senior, with seniorities since 9th grade, you know that is a big deal. I know you're going to be a great teacher and I am really excited for you. You've helped me understand things a lot better, I've learned a lot from you-- so thank you. Also, being able to connect with you has helped a lot and been a great experience. I've always been afraid or uncomfortable around teacher, but not with you-- that is a good thing. I'm more eager and excited for my life at college next year and that is thanks to you! I know Ill have a lot of advice to take with me from you, that definitely means so much. I wish the best for you and if you get a job at ER, I'll definitely come by and visit. You'll always be one of those teachers I won't forget. So, thank you for being part of my senior year!!

**Side note, I hope these don't sound too odd just out of the blue, or out of context, but if you knew these students, this is saying a lot**

Anyways... that is all for now. Update later about the job search...