Teacher Magic: Three Things I Wish I Had Done in Year One
Welcome to teaching! As you open the door to your first classroom, you will be filled with excitement and perhaps some nervousness. I would like to share some of the wisdom I have gained through the years. These are my personal top three “Teacher Magic” tips.
Engage Personally with Each Student
This means sharing who you are as a person. Not all the personal details of your life, but the big things like why you chose to be a teacher, why you are happy to be at this school, and what you like to do when you are not teaching.
It also means you need to know the big things in each of your students’ lives and what they like to do when they are not in school.
Connect with Other Beginning Teachers
Other beginning teachers in their first three years understand what is going on and can relate to your initial fears. If there are no beginners at your school, reach out to other schools, get an online support group, or find other ways to connect across your district. Be open to ideas, but always trust your own inner voice before implementing any routine or practice.
Solve Problems with an Experienced Mentor
Find a mentor if you are not assigned one. Reach out to teachers you admire. Don’t be shy or afraid to share your struggles. In addition to a one-on-one mentor, you may benefit from group mentoring. Group mentoring is a way to share your common problems and create possible solutions.
If you intentionally…
Share who you are and know each of your students personally,
Connect with other beginning teachers, and
Solve your problems with experienced teachers,
YOU will maintain your balance, stay inspired, and even have a little fun in your first year!
This is teacher magic, and YOU are the magician.