My teaching career started overseas in Casablanca, Morocco. Teaching at a small international school was a challenge because resources were few and the latest technology was an overhead projector! As one of two math teachers at the school, I had 5 different preps and was responsible for creating major pieces of the curriculum. Then there were the kids: trying to learn in a language not their own, hungry for relationship, appreciative of my efforts to be a good teacher. Kids will be kids no matter where you are in the world. These kids weren't perfect, but they stole my heart.
Two years later I moved back to West Michigan and got a job in a district much like the one I grew up in: supportive administrators, lots of resources, a collaborative staff. I am so blessed. Teaching here my biggest resources are my colleagues. I love working in such a supportive community. For me, one of the biggest challenges is connecting with kids who expect you to be amazing and engaging and include all the latest technology. In our world of instant gratification, I struggle at times to figure out how to reach kids and help them develop deeper critical thinking skills.
This year, teaching at the junior high level, I feel like I have the best of both worlds. My kids are young enough that they aren't "too cool for school" and haven't been too jaded by math. I'm able to teach math to the best of my ability and have relationships with students.
I'm very impressed that you taught abroad. I would find it very intimidating to do what you did to start your teaching career.
ReplyDelete