By participating in the Pekin Professional Development School, I have gained so much knowledge in the field of education that I will continue to use.  I feel blessed to have been a part of such an amazing experience, and I have enjoyed every single moment.  Last May, I was nervous and scared of what I had signed up for.  However, now, I am a confident, enthusiastic teacher.

              In the beginning of the year, I met my mentor teacher, and from that meeting, we formed a bond.  We both love the Cardinals!  I met my students for the first time in August, and they have been a part of my life ever since.  Throughout my first semester in the program, I learned effective classroom management techniques by observing my mentor’s strategies. We used a chip method that students would try and participate in Fun Fridays. Communication skills became an important tool that I observed my mentor teacher using with students, families, and other colleagues.  By communicating with families on a consistent basis, there was a connection between school and home.  Another attribute necessary to teaching is collaboration with other colleagues.  I watched my mentor discuss ideas daily with the teacher down the hall. She also had an intern. The four of us learned to cooperate extremely well with each other.  The value of collaboration helps everyone involved.  Overall, the first two phases of my internship prepared me for the challenge of student teaching.

              When January came, I realized I was ready to student teach because of how comfortable I felt with my students, mentor teacher, and building staff.  I eased into teaching by following my mentor’s example while also experimenting with my own ideas. I slowly began to take over a number of subjects.  I saw an immediate growth in my ability to manage a classroom and have the students respect me as their teacher.  Throughout my teaching, I learned how to plan and implement lessons directed towards different learners. I communicated with students on a regular basis. I followed classroom and building procedures and standards. I also came to the realization about the need to be flexible. There are so many unexpected events or issues that occur throughout the average schoolday.  Student teaching has allowed me to become the best teacher possible.

              Personally, this program has been the wisest decision I could have made for my professional career, as an educator.  The guidance, support, and warmth from this learning experience will be with me forever.