Responsibility

As I spend time thinking about being a classroom teacher, I am reminded of the responsibilities that we have to our students. We are to ensure the safety of each student. We must teach them the necessities of our discipline. We must serve as a guide, mentor, sounding board, and even a shoulder to cry on at times. We have to teach them a portion of the things they need to know to be successful adults. We must constantly be setting an example for them and so much more. With all these things in mind, we play a large part in their growth and development. This is a huge responsibility; one that must not be taken lightly.

I think back to when I was in school, there were teachers that were only teaching for the benefits or some other reason., but it was clear to me that they were not there for the right reasons. These teachers did not provide opportunities for students to reach their full potential. This is not the kind of teacher that I want to be.
There were other teachers that were absolutely there for the right reasons, or at least had me convinced of it. These teachers constantly challenged their students to go above and beyond their expectations. They encouraged students to think "outside the box." They provided encouragement and understanding when things did not go exactly as planned. They were the kind of teachers that would build confidence in even students that were afraid to try. They were engaging with just the right mix of leadership and guidance. This is the kind of teacher that I want to be.

As I prepare to walk in a classroom, I need to consider all these things and devise ways to accomplish the tasks that need to be accomplished. While I am planning each days activities, I must remember to include time for the "out of the box" things that will help my students to learn and grow at the same time. I should always make time for correction and encouragement throughout each day. I must engage the students and encourage them to take responsibility for their learning. I should let them know that I am there to help them. If I remember these things, I will be one step closer to being the teacher that I know I can be.