This year, I have the opportunity to assist in the coaching of two of the new teachers at our school. Officially, my title is mentor, and I suppose with 24 years of experience, there may be some truth to the title - but that's not what I'm really writing about here.
Recently, I was needed to help with a technology issue in one of their classrooms. While I was out of the classroom, Mrs. Stagner, in her new position as Teaching and Learning Coach for Cecil Floyd Elementary, stepped into our classroom. I explained to her that when the music ended, she could go over the material on the SMART Board with the class. One look at the rigorous work, and she said to me, "You'd better hurry back." The work looks much more difficult than it really is, but it is definitely impressive to outsiders.
Upon returning to the class, I found them to be about halfway through the material. Back at the SMART Board, I immediately stepped into my teacher role and taught the class as usual. Mrs. Stagner stayed and observed as students applauded one another for successes, helped each other through struggles, and gave looks of pleasure after they overcame difficulties.
Later in the day, I checked my email and the "drop" shown here at right was there waiting for me. Parents, please acknowledge with your child the success we are having as a classroom family. I never used the word family with Mrs. Stagner, but she was able to pick up on it in just the short time she spent with us. That is truly impressive! I hope we can keep developing such a healthy atmosphere.
Recently, I was needed to help with a technology issue in one of their classrooms. While I was out of the classroom, Mrs. Stagner, in her new position as Teaching and Learning Coach for Cecil Floyd Elementary, stepped into our classroom. I explained to her that when the music ended, she could go over the material on the SMART Board with the class. One look at the rigorous work, and she said to me, "You'd better hurry back." The work looks much more difficult than it really is, but it is definitely impressive to outsiders.
Upon returning to the class, I found them to be about halfway through the material. Back at the SMART Board, I immediately stepped into my teacher role and taught the class as usual. Mrs. Stagner stayed and observed as students applauded one another for successes, helped each other through struggles, and gave looks of pleasure after they overcame difficulties.
Later in the day, I checked my email and the "drop" shown here at right was there waiting for me. Parents, please acknowledge with your child the success we are having as a classroom family. I never used the word family with Mrs. Stagner, but she was able to pick up on it in just the short time she spent with us. That is truly impressive! I hope we can keep developing such a healthy atmosphere.
