Rules For Posting To This Blog and Weekly Blog Question

1. Only use your first name (no last names, addresses, IM screen names, etc.)
2. Show respect and consideration of others when posting and commenting. This includes individuals, students, organizations, political parties, colleagues, etc.
3. Check all posts for spelling and grammar errors before posting.
4. Protect the privacy of others. Gain permission from other people before you write about them. Avoid sharing someone else's last name. Use job titles or pseudonyms when writing about experiences with your co-workers or students.
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6. Make sure you write about things that are factual.
7. Keep your postings education-oriented. Avoid discussing plans for the weekend, etc.

FINAL BLOG POST - OUR "DAILY TRIPLE" (DUE 12/1).
This week I would like you to use your imagination. You have just won the lottery and will leave your teaching post immediately to travel around the world. As you leave your keys you meet your replacement. You are asked to give this new teacher just ONE piece of advice. What would that be, and why? Enjoy your world expedition!

Blog Post - Week 7
This past week in my own teaching I felt a little disconnected which prompts my question to you, "What was the moment (or moments) when I felt most disconnected or disengaged as a teacher - the moment(s) I said to myself, I'm just going through the motions here?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 6
For the past couple of weeks you have experienced asynchronous online learning (doing modules by yourself). Previously this semester you have experienced synchronous online learning (all together in the Collaborate room). Which do you think is more effective and why do you think that? Which do you like better, and why?

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 5
This week we have what we call "open mic." You can write a post about anything related to your teaching that you would like responses from your classmates.

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 4
Here is this week's question: "What was the event that most took me surprise this week - and event that shook me up, caught me off guard, gave me a jolt, or made me unexpectedly happy?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 3
Please write a post about the following question, "In thinking about my past week teaching what is one thing I would do differently, and why?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 2
Please write a post about the following question, " In thinking about my teaching activities this past week, of what do I feel most proud? Why?"

Fall Semester 2016 Blog Post - Week 1
Describe something you used in your program in the first weeks of school that you learned in the summer NTI program. How did it work? Did it get you off to a stronger start than last year?

Saturday, October 24, 2009

Finding a Balance

This week was interesting. I started to really listen to conversations of other teachers and tried to be aware of all the different personalities on our staff. These observations made me more self aware and helped me focus on what I feel is important. I have let go of somethings at school which were above and beyond the call of duty. For several days prior to this week I felt tremedous guilt about letting go of these things. Being more aware of others has led me to unburden the load of guilt. I have experienced the grace of allowing myself to achieve but not having to be the overachiever. I've stood up to what I think is reasonable and that's a good thing. Making it in the classroom for the long haul, in my case, absolutely requires time to stay healthy, enjoy family and friends outside work, and give the kids the best I can offer within that framework.

4 comments:

Amy said...

Melissa, I totally understand what you are saying about "finding a balance." This has been one of the hardest things for me. We come from an industry where if someone tells you to do something you do it. You do it because you know there is a good reason why and that you will be held accountable if you do not. Our previous careers were "evidence based practice" careers. In education is seems that whoever is the latest and greatest name in education is who's "evidence" we practice. You are right in just doing what you can and not stressing yourself out over the little stuff...don't sweat the small stuff as they say. Granted, I need to follow my own advice at times! :-) I often find myself joking with a fellow CTAE teacher at my school by saying "what is the most logical thing to do in this situation" then I know that the school will require me to do the exact opposite. It has become sore of a game for us. I figure laughing beats crying so why not do that!

Kennis said...

This post put me in mind of how many teachers you overhear talking about how horrible things are at your school. Negativity can spread like a disease. I saw this happen at my last job, and it is still eating at some of the people who work there. I have decided that I would not let the negative outlook of others affect my disposition. It is good to come to NTI and see other new teachers who are hopeful for a future in education. Stay positive everyone. "Spirit Fingers!"

Suzette said...

Melissa and Amy,

This rings true for me as well. My principal used the analogy of the duck for complainers and the eagle for those that soar above the sorrow that exist. I don't quack like a duck but it is extremely burdensome to soar at such high altitudes all of the time. I have decided to back off of some of the rigor in areas that don't have high input. I am identifying more creative ways to stimulate the young mind and I am finding that we are both happier. I think the philosophy from our previous careers, as Amy noted, puts you on a path to rapid burn out. My husband said "NO homework grading this weekend", so I left school late on Friday and didn't bring work home. Balance--it's what we all need to survive. Thanks for sharing!

Dr. M said...

Hi, Melissa - I have heard this recurring theme from other NTI teachers as well, and glad to hear that you are dealing with time and responsibility management in a positive way. Great example for others who are feeling the same way, and thanks for sharing for everyone!