Meeting Reflection:
I went to an art department meeting on Wednesday October 29. It was hosted in one of the art classrooms and was attended by the 4 art teachers at FCHS. There were many topics covered and discussed between the 4 art teachers in the department. It opened my eyes to what goes on 'behind the scenes' in different departments specifically art which I will be involved in in my future as a teacher. A few of the topics that were discussed surprised me, not knowing how the art department is involved with different committees. It was nice to see how information is passed down from meeting with representatives from different content areas to the rest of the teachers in this area.
Co-Curricular Activity Reflection #1
I went to the Homecoming football game on Thursday October 16. When I arrived the stands were covered in gold and purple. It was nice to see students outside of school supporting their school and football team. I saw a few of the students I had began to build relationships with in the stands cheering for their team. There were a few teaching moments that occurred when students were throwing things from the back of the stands. I wasn't the first 450 student to react, but seeing the issue resolve reminded me of how teachers need to always be aware of what is happening and do what they can to help resolve issues when necessary.
Co-Curricular Activity Reflection #2
I attended and was a chaperone for the Homecoming dance on Friday October 17. When I arrived I noticed the range of attire from semi-formal to formal. I began work in the coat check room, putting away jackets and shoes in organized lines of bags. I saw a few of my students from the classes I have been involved in and many were surprised to see me but still said a nice hello. The second shift I took about halfway through the night was in the gym where the dance was happening. It was a bit overwhelming to walk into the darkened room knowing that I was now in a position of keeping things in order. It reminded me of being a high school student just 4 years ago. Being a chaperone, I feel as if it put me in a different position than just a teacher. Seeing students in this environment was helpful to see students in a new light. It was interesting to see students in a different environment in school rather than a classroom. A school dance is a place where many students have a chance to have fun and be themselves with friends. I was able to see more of the students personalities as they enjoyed their evening. It also was a time that just a short conversation with a students could help lead to building a relationship with them that would continue in the classroom.
Parent Photo Night Reflection
I attended the parent photo night put on by the photography teacher, whom I am paired with for 450. It was a great event to help students become the teacher and show their parents and family members what they have learned and the traditional photo process. I was able to assist some of the students who were their with their families, with tips on how to change settings in the darkroom in order to improve their results. When I am teaching photography in the future I would like to plan an event similar to this to involve parents in the learning process.
AVID
This semester I have been a tutor in the AVID program. The AVID, Advancement Via Individual Determination, program is in place for students to learn organizational and study skills, develop critical thinking and inquiry strategies, receive academic help from peers and college tutors, and participate in enrichment and motivational activities that make the college dream accessible, according to the school website. I have worked with the same group of 7 students and have been able to get to know them and watch them improve throughout the semester. This experience will help me in the future by knowing how to question students to help them address their confusions. I also now have the experience of the AVID program so I could help bring it into a high school, or middle school, in which I may work in the future.