Bittersweet Ending

I honestly cannot believe that my time in Quest 2 is nearly over. The time flew while I was in my second rotation in first grade. I realize now that I was more comfortable in 1st grade. I was more confident about my abilities, and everything just seemed to click. I felt strong in all of my professional attributes, whereas during my first rotation, I felt shaky with my with-it-ness. I had more freedom during my second rotation. My SBTE was excited to have me, and gave me many opportunities. On my second day, my SBTE was absent, and because I was the familiar face in the classroom--even after just one day--I taught the entire day. It was thrilling. There were road-bumps throughout the rotation; I had been used to the content and abilities of third graders, so I needed assistance in deciding what a first grader would be able to do when I first began. I was able to adapt what I learned during my first rotation in third grade to my second in first grade.

This semester has been more than I could have ever imagined. I have learned so much about myself both inside and outside of the walls of the classroom. Having been in two such drastically different classrooms opened my eyes to see what will and will not work in a classroom. I began my semester only knowing the abstract concepts taught during Quest 1. I had no experience with true classroom management or instruction to actual elementary students. Over the two rotations, I know that my place is in the classroom. I have confidence in myself and my ability, now more than ever! It saddens me to think that I will not be able to see the friends I have made everyday, but knowing that I am one step closer to my goal makes me very excited and optimistic about the future.