Being Supportive of my Students 9/11-17/13

What did you learn this week either formally or informally that
will help you grow as a teacher? You may have learned this from another teacher, through an experience, from a student, in class, etc.


There was an instance this week where I felt I was not supported by my Department Leader and my CTAE Director.  I know that they have policies and procedures that need to be in place, but they cannot jeopardize the effectiveness of one of their teachers.  I attempted to explain to them that going around to several grocery stores to obtain estimates on food items needed for labs and various catered events was not effective or efficient for several reasons including the fact that prices change and items are not always available.  The new procedure of submitting this estimation and requesting a check 3-weeks out sounds good in theory but doesn't work in reality.  Rather than attempting to understand the obstacles I face with this new procedure, I felt I was dismissed and my concerns were disregarded.

It made me realize that as a teacher, I cannot simply give my students assignments for the sake of completing tasks or checking off standards.  I want to give my students assignments and tasks that are meaningful and have a purpose.  I want my students to feel that I am supportive rather than overwhelm them with tasks and requirements.  Getting to know more about how they learn, why they want be in the culinary class, will allow me to make the learning more of an opportunity rather than an obstacle.  I don't want to dismiss their hesitations and hinder their chance to succeed.