Silly Science

So sorry for the hiatus. I've been somewhat busy attempting to teach the children about Science, that I, myself, do not remember/know.

I have been struggling with the fact that I seem to be somewhat "unknowledgeable" of the content. Every week I have to re-teach myself all of the stuff I learned 10 years ago that I am planning on teaching.

Good news... I took a Science test and on

ly got 3 wrong! 37/40, a 93%.

Bad news... It was the 5th grade Science TAKs test.

More good news... it seems as if I have done a fantastic job forming relationships with my students. They are loving my rewards systems, individual and class rewards. They talk to me about their interests without being prompted to. They give me silly bandz and make my name out of them...

But best of all, they are excited to be in my class. Today, Leo asked, "Miss, why does your class go by so fast?" (reminder: my classes are 90 minutes long). I replied, "Because Science is so fun! Time flies when you're having fun!" He said "Nahh Miss, I think it's because of you."

I almost wanted to run outside the classroom, close the door, and do a victory dance. Instead, I smiled, gave him a little wink, and continued with my lesson, because I have so much to teach them and so little time... (even if sometimes it feels as if time is dragging on.)

But most of the time, it seems that I'm running out of time. There are not enough hours in a day to plan or implement everything I think would benefit my kids. Besides all of my teacher duties (which I did not realize included an excessive amount of mostly pointless paperwork) I am taking classes. In the month of October I have a 3 hour class every Monday that pretty much requires me to leave right after school to get there on time. So, by the time I get home it's almost 9 which is barely enough time to watch Gossip Girl and get to bed. Then, I also have class every other Wednesdays for 3 hours. Blah.

Bottom Line: It's a lot of work.

I try with all of my being to not complain, I really do try, but sometimes it's impossible. Sometimes, the things I have to do outside the classroom seem so unimportant and that I could be spending my time preparing for my actual teaching instead. That is what frustrates me beyond belief. I just have to keep thinking that everything I am doing is for the greater good of my kids, and will help me in the long run... Even if it means I have to repeat that to myself over and over again. There's nothing I dislike more than hearing myself complain. Really, what do I have to be complaining about? I have a job that I enjoy, great friends, an awesome family, and I am healthy and happy.

Pretty sweet life if you ask me.

ttfn-

C SCHWARTZ