day 9

The past few days have been challenging, but also transformative. I began the year very concerned with replicating the management that I had last year -- my mindset was focused on re-creating. It has taken me two weeks to really acknowledge and accept that this year, and every new year, is completely different. With some students, like N, I realized that my "toolkit" of teacher tricks is actually only one year old. I have had to admit that I do not always know what I am doing. I've experienced a lot of humility.

Things are beginning to get better. Of course there are good days and bad days, but overall I see improvement. My staff, especially the special ed teacher, has been very supportive. She came in to observe N and said that she had seen an 80% improvement. I don't know if that's fair to say, but I am glad to hear that it is getting better. And, fortunately for both N and me, the other special ed student was placed in a different class. I finally feel energized and excited about really helping N grow this year.


Quote of the day:
"N, I see you using green. What are you drawing? What's your favorite food?"
"Laser Pancakes."