The Most Important Thing...

The most important thing I have learned about my students this year is that they are all different.  Everyone has their own issues and carry a lot with them when the enter the classroom.  I think these days students have more emotional stress and don't always have a stable foundation at home.  So, teaching requires a little bit more patience, "tough love," and the poker chip mentality to give students a safe and consistent environment to learn and develop in.

I have also learned that students want to be challenged.  Teachers must be on their toes, constantly developing new plans, new projects, and relate it all to new technology or how it can be applied to their world.

Finally, I have learned that these kids we have now are a lot different from how they were just 7 years ago when I was in school.  I think students today have a greater feeling of entitlement.  Most think that they deserve something, or that the concept of earning something is gone.  Students are handed a lot by their parents and the work ethic / effort is not as strong.  As I tell my students, "Don't settle for a minimum."  Many students settle for the minimal expectations and do not want to exceed...they just want to pass.  I guess its just another challenge for teachers to teach beyond the curriculum, and teach some life skills.

Also...I chaperoned prom this weekend.  Nothing like being out of high school for only 7 years and immediately feeling old as you walk into the dance room.  :)