practice teaching

I have finished my practice teaching placements for my undergraduate degrees with Wilfrid Laurier and Nipissing University. I wish I could say that my last day teaching was highly successful and effective. Yet, this I know is not completely true. Suffering from pink eye and a raspy throat that left me whispering inconsistently, I struggled to communicate to over 30 students today. After discovering late Wednesday afternoon that my eyes were abnormally itchy, burning, and filled with fluid, I was kindly informed that I likely had pink eye. Not allowing myself to be overcome by this bacterial infection, I purchased over the counter medication to try and remedy the situation. Thursday morning produced swollen eyelids, eyes the colour of cherry tomatoes complete with the "juice", and a throat imitating a sick frog. To be fair though, my throat initially displayed the weariness of teaching one week ago. Having received the legal yes to attend school from the physician, I began teaching. I am sure, however, that I saw more of my eyelids than the students from the constant blinking and closing eyes. Sent home early from my concerned associate teacher, I headed to the doctor for prescription medication for my eyes (I had already received some fluid to gargle for my throat earlier in the week). After awaking from my limited sleep-filled night, due to my inability to swallow comfortably, my eyes were nearly functioning as normal. My throat, on the other hand, lacked any type of coherent purpose. Nevertheless, I drove to school so that I would not be absent from my last day. The extend of my teaching time lasted no more than one period. Yet I can undoubtedly attest to the success of my teaching weeks based on the feedback received from students, teachers, and parents alike. And so, although I have been greatly limited physically, I know that this last day and the last week were definitely memorable. Thanks.

Hundreds of other student teachers have finished their placements this week as well. Of special note, I want to acknowledge those student teachers who have completed their practice teaching placement overseas. Stories of challenges, misconceptions, learning opportunities, adventure and fun, and appreciating a new culture have helped to affirm the privilege of being able to teach in a new country in a new environment. I applaud the efforts of so many wonderful aspiring teachers who have embraced teaching in a foreign country with eager smiles and daunting fears. Having the opportunity to experience a different culture in the context of a profession is invaluable to any person, both in terms of professional aspirations and personal growth.

Thanks to the teachers who have mentored me and equipped me to become even more effective as a teacher. Thanks to the students from whom I have learned much about uniqueness, humour, and the importance of saying "good morning". Thanks to the parents who have partnered with me to educate their children. Thanks to the student teachers who have demonstrated insightfulness to developing stimulating and effective lesson plans as well as encouragement. And thanks to family and friends who have listened to my mock lessons, offered creative adaptations for lessons, provided resources, and have gently reminded me to seek activities apart from teaching.