These past couple of months have been a real challenge for me. I'm definetly dealing with a lot of behavior issues within my class and still trying to adjust working in a new and challeging environment. However, I have experienced some highs this month. The first is slowly being able to build connections with my kids. I have been having small group and one on one quick convos with some of students to get to know them a little better. I find that when I really have the opportunity to get to know my students their behavior improves and when they do act out in class I can deal with their negative behavior a little easier. Secondly, I had a really good conversation with one of my students' parents. It was a good opportunity to hear her talk about the things she wants for her son and allowing her to express her frustrations. After the meeting I really felt more committed to supporting him in everyway possible.
I want to continue with the trend of building connections in my class but I also want my classroom learning environment to improve. I feel as though behavior problems have gotten in the way of students learning in class. On the upside, I'm really anxious to implement our TICC/Action Research Plan b/c I believe it's really going to be helpful and address the needs of our classroom culture. I feel as though if our class can get to a point where students learn to respect each other and control their behavior, we can have some dynamic experiences in the classroom.
On a personal note, I'm also trying to focus on making sure I take care of myself so I can be the best for my students. Not only do I deserve to be happy, restful, and confident, but my students deserve a teacher who is giving her best. I know I'm not at my best when I'm highly stressed and overwhelemd (which is what I've been feeling a lot of lately). So one of my focusses moving forward through the year is to take care of myself and make sure I have a work/ personal life balance to be the best I can be for me and my students :)
