"Kate Teacher" - First Day on the Job

First day of teaching is finally complete. I have been waiting so long for this!  While nerves were absolutely present the last few days, today I was just ready to get things rolling.  Since we use two different curriculum, one on Mondays and Thursdays, and the other Tuesdays and Wednesdays, tomorrow will be yet another new adventure. But now, knowing my students so much more than last week of observations, I have assurance that I am prepared.

I cannot tell you that my students learned a thing today, but goodness, did I!  I decided as I anticipated this day, that my goals were to be flexible and to love well.  I would like to think those goals were reached, and their fruit being far above any academic achievement.  While no five of my lesson plans were taught quite as I intended, I learned the things I need to work on and the actions and attitudes I must strive to continue.

This conversations nearly brought me to tears, serving as a reminder why I am here. It went like this...

(when my class of two settled in their seats)
Me: "How are you today?"
Students: "We are happy...and excited!"
Me: "Wow, really? Why are you both happy and excited?"
Students: "Because you are our teacher!"

Yes, I almost lost it. How can I possibly teach these incredible children all they need to know?!  Maybe it's not about what I can do though.  Honestly, I hope there is much more to this journey than that.

Here are a few pictures to sum up my day. I hope you enjoy!

~

Here is my classroom. I love the blue walls and teal chairs - such a happy-looking place!

Two of my highest-leveled students. The girl on the left brought us all milkshakes...
Did I mention I have awesome students??

Rough picture, since I set the camera to timer on my makeshift tripod
(ie. a swivel chair on top of the table)..but I wanted one from my first day. haha

Shalom, ~Kate