As a high school Algebra I teacher in Springfield, Missouri, I have the privilege of educating and shaping the minds of young, eager students every single day. However, what many people don’t know is that in addition to my daily teaching responsibilities, I also teach preservice elementary school teachers one night per week. This unique opportunity has not only allowed me to expand my teaching skills, but also to make a difference in the education system as a whole.
Teaching Algebra I to high school freshmen is no easy feat. These students are at a critical stage in their academic journey, where they are transitioning from middle school to high school and from concrete to abstract thinking. It is my responsibility to not only teach them the fundamentals of algebra, but also to instill in them a love for math and a growth mindset. Every day, I see the impact of my teaching on these students as they become more confident in their abilities and begin to excel in the subject.
However, despite the challenges and rewards of teaching high schoolers, I wanted to take my teaching skills one step further and make a bigger impact. That’s when I decided to take on the role of teaching preservice elementary school teachers one night per week. This program is designed for college students who are studying to become teachers, but have not yet had the opportunity to work in a classroom setting. My job is to introduce them to the world of teaching and provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge to become successful educators in the future.
Teaching preservice teachers has been a completely different experience from teaching high school students. While high schoolers are already familiar with the concept of school and have developed their own study habits and learning styles, preservice teachers are just beginning their journey. It is my responsibility to not only teach them about classroom management and lesson planning, but also to inspire them and ignite their passion for teaching. I strongly believe that the best way to do this is through hands-on learning and practical experience.
One of the highlights of my week is seeing the preservice teachers in action during their weekly field placements. This is when they get the opportunity to apply what they have learned in the classroom and work with actual elementary school students. It is truly rewarding to see the growth and development of these future educators as they navigate through the challenges of teaching. I am constantly amazed by their creativity, dedication, and passion for teaching.
Teaching preservice teachers has not only allowed me to share my knowledge and experience with others, but it has also enabled me to continuously learn and grow as an educator. As I guide these future teachers, I am also learning from them and gaining new perspectives and approaches to teaching. It’s a beautiful cycle of growth and learning that benefits not only me, but also the students I teach and the community as a whole.
One of the most important aspects of teaching preservice teachers is the impact it has on the education system. As these students go on to become teachers themselves, they will implement the skills and strategies they have learned from their preservice experience. This will not only improve the quality of education, but also create a ripple effect as these teachers inspire and motivate their own students. By teaching preservice teachers, I am not only influencing a handful of students, but an entire generation of future educators.
Teaching high school Algebra I and preservice elementary school teachers may seem like completely different roles, but they are both vital in creating a strong and effective education system. As a teacher, it is my duty to not only educate my own students, but also to inspire and guide future educators. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of these preservice teachers and I am confident that they will go on to make a positive impact on the education system.
In conclusion, my role as a teacher extends beyond the four walls of my high school classroom. One night per week, I have the honor of shaping the minds of future educators who will go on to make a significant impact on the education system. Teaching preservice elementary school teachers has been a rewarding and enriching experience that has allowed me to continuously grow as an educator. I am proud to play a small part in shaping the future of education and I am excited to see the positive impact these preservice teachers will have on generations to come.
