Week 5
After talking to Betsey Gibbs about my situation, we came to the conclusion that it would be in my best interest to switch my student teaching placement. Betsey told me she would find a new placement for me. In two days, Betsey emailed me with the good news that she found a placement for me. She told me I would be placed in Monica Smith’s third grade classroom at Los Altos Elementary School in the Chula Visit School District and I would start the following Monday. I was so happy to hear that news and excited to try out this new placement. On that Monday, I left the house extra early to make sure I was on time to meet my master teacher. When I arrived at the school, right away my master teacher, Mrs. Smith greeted me and welcomed me to the school. Shortly after, I met the principal and she gave me a warm welcome. Throughout the day I shadowed Monica. She showed me around and introduced me to all of the fellow staff that she encountered. Everyone I met seemed so friendly and welcoming. Being new to the school, I was curious about the school and had lots of questions. Monica was very understanding about this and inviting of me asking questions. This made me feel so very comfortable approaching her. For first week, I mainly just observed her classroom to get a feel for her classroom routines, teaching style, and classroom management style. I also took the opportunity to get to know Monica and the students (both academically and personally). It also happened to be parent teacher conference week so I was able to sit in on a couple conferences. Lastly on Friday, I got to accompany the class on a field trip to Torrey Pines State Park which was really fun and exciting experience. Overall, I had a great first week and great first impression of my placement. In that first week, I already so comfortable at the school and approaching my teacher for support. I could already tell this placement was going to be a better fit for me.