The teaching profession is noble. Remember you are valued. Being a teacher is worth it even if you can make a difference for one child's education and life. Teaching can be a deeply fulfilling career.
You have graduated from the Bachelor of Education or Masters of Teaching program and no longer a teacher candidate. You have now been hired by a school board and either supply teaching or you finally have your own classroom. This is a wonderful transition.
Even if you are on a supply list don't be disheartened. You still have the opportunity to exercise your teaching strategies and classroom management techniques.
Being a teacher is not a walk in the park. I have had many years of teaching students at all levels from JK-12, from academic to special needs, including teaching teachers.
Time is involved in managing the classroom, understanding the curriculum, creating lesson plans that motivate students but also meet the needs of all learners. Learners are all unique and at different levels, some have special needs. What about lessons that integrate indigenous themes, anti-racism, and literacy across the curriculum?
How do you make your classroom an inclusive environment?
My approach with my students has always been to create an open inclusive setting. Building a spirit of community based on indigenous inspired teaching method such as Tribes.
Tribes represent small peer groups who support each other, learn from each other and care about each other. Teaching students to think and listen actively. No put downs. Respect. Active listening. Right to pass.
How to foster an inquiry-based culture for Primary learners
Requires knowledge building – collaboration
Links to indigenous talking circle
Builds student voice, interest and curiosity
Need to introduce authentic problems to discover
Inquiry based learning grounded in natural instincts of primary learners
Can use art to draw and express ideas for early learners
Classroom should reflect flexible, collaborative seating in clusters
If you want to learn how to integrate indigenous themes across the curriculum, teaching methods to support students with exceptionalities then send me a query by filling out the Contact Me form. I don't have all the answers but willing to provide guidance and support.
