student teaching

Today was my final day of student teaching. My brain is full and tired. My students were so sweet and generous. The cooperating teacher had them write friendly goodbye letters to me while I was out of the room. She presented the letters to me in a spiral binding. Many of the children illustrated the back of the letters. I can't believe I didn't bawl off my head.

Reflecting over this experience I have to say that I learned more from the children than I think they learned from me--and I know myself a bit better, as well.

learning as i go

today a 5th grade boy gave me a summary of a few of gary paulsen's novels. it was thrilling to hear his excitement, and encouraging to see so many of the boys in the class actively engaged in reading, learning, and making connections with the text.