New Beginnings and Hidden Fear

So it's been a little bit since I last posted, but I received an offer for a sixth grade position and I took it.  Never really though I would end up teaching sixth grade as my first job and definitely not part way through the year, but I am now a sixth grade teacher.  It has been quite a hectic transition for my students and I alike.  They miss their teacher and I miss my sleep haha.  I have found it a bit tougher than I had imagined it in my mind, but I know I can do it.  I have heard many people telling me because I am coming in almost three quarters of the way into the year at this level that "If you can do this, you can do anything."  I have cried once (though not in front of my students of course.  That would be bad).  I have also learned so much this last week, which was my first week.  If you are a new teacher, let alone one coming in part way through the year with little to go on, this is what I have found to be helpful in my experience so far.

1. Be expecting the unexpected.
2. Ask, ask, ask!  Much of the staff is more than willing to help and are full of wonderful information.
3. No matter how tough things may get, do not give up.  Students need structure and to know you're serious about your routine.
4. Take a breath and take it one day at a time.  I felt overwhelmed by day two, but it has gotten better after that.
5. Show them you have structure, but don't forget to show them you care.  Let them see your humor and that they are important to you.  Hopefully they will come around and see that you have structure because you care.

There are many things I have learned, but there is still so much I need to learn.  I'm sure it will become easier overtime.  I do really enjoy teaching so far.  I am very grateful for this opportunity and am ready to learn to become a great teacher!

Oh, the Joys of Interviews

It seems everyone is trying to find a job these days.  I've had six interviews in the past four months to no avail.  I've learned a lot about interviewing and my own skills that I have brought to my interviews these past few months.  I have always been so used to getting a job no problem, but with so many people seeking out the same position, I am surprised at just how tricky it could be.  From my first interview to my last, I am able to look back and see my growth.  I went from someone who went in, not having any material with me and not knowing what to expect, to someone who has a basic understanding of what schools are looking for in prospect teachers.
Even with that gained knowledge, I know I still have a lot more to learn.  I have been researching how to improve myself as an interviewer to make myself stand out.  With my last interview, I even went in a day before to drop off my very organized and informational professional portfolio.  Though I did not get the job due to lack of teaching experience, the principal said she was very impressed and I have a lot of potential, even going as far as saying that if she has openings this upcoming school year, she would be interested in interviewing me again.  That was a great compliment.  Though I do not know where I will end up, I am confident I will find the school I am meant to teach at.  Until then, I will keep my chin up and keep working on improving myself, finding ways to become an effective teacher.  What tips and tricks do you have when it comes to interviewing?

Cool Giveaway Over at Hippo Hooray for Second Grade!

So I recently stumbled upon this wonderful blog by Second Grade teacher, Angela.  I think it was the catchy name that caught my interest: Hippo Hooray for Second Grade.  She posts a lot of neat information I am finding useful as well as I find her blogs intriguing as they show me a bit of insight on one teachers teaching experiences.  As such, I would like to share this giveaway she has going on.  I must say this is one of the coolest pencil sharpeners I have seen and would love to have one for myself one day.  So to you out there who may be reading my blog, this may be your lucky shot at adding a neat sharpener to your own classroom!  Just click the picture below to head on over to her site and enter!

Good luck everyone!

Happy Holidays!

So I have been waiting for my teaching license to come in for a little while.  I am happy to say it FINALLY CAME IN!

What timing to come in being tomorrow is Christmas!  Well Happy Holidays to all who may stumble upon reading my blog!

Where Do I Go From Here?

I am always inspired by the information experienced teachers put out there on the internet for newbie teachers, such as myself, to find.  I take in as much useful information and tips to help create myself to be an effective teacher from the start.  I am currently going through a part of my life where I have no idea what is going to happen in the next year and I find it both exciting and frightening.  My hubby-to-be is entering graduate school and his choices are limited to a few due to his degree, so we are in a sort of limbo right now while we await to hear what schools he gets accepted to and where we will end up.  Then comes the part where I do my very best and give it my all to try and secure a position as a teacher.  Will I be able to find a position at the beginning of next school year in another state as a brand new teacher?  Will I be prepared to shine above all other applicants who may try for the positions I will apply for?  Will I begin my dream career when I hope to?  These are a few of many questions that have been running through my mind these past few months.  I was thinking to myself, "How I can record my journey in becoming a teacher in a meaningful way?"  I then realized I enjoy finding out many things through blogs I read.  My hopes are that this blog will help to provide other newbie teachers with information and an insight on the journey to becoming a teacher as well as I hope to gain tips and information from those with more experience so that I may become the teacher I hope to be.

With all that being said...WELCOME TO MY FIRST BLOG!