Inspiration

This week as I wondered the halls I watched the kindergarten teacher and her 33 students walk in from recess. It was just the teacher, no aid, no parent, no help, with 33 kinders! They were in line and walking to class but the littles at the end were so far behind they were practically in their own world. I was inspired by her calm, firm role with all these kids. I decided to go in and help for a bit, she was going to play the name game with the kids.

They all sat in a circle and she passed out their little envelopes of names. There were a handful in their own conversations, one crying for his mom, some pulling their names out of the envelopes and still more looking and listening elsewhere. Between the two of us we got them all settled with their names out in front of them and she proceeded to pick letters. Some kids picked up every letter in their name when they had the one she called out, others were not listening, and still others were now playing with their envelopes instead of listening to the letters. 

A game that should have taken 15 minutes took 30 but in the end all the kids recognized the letter she called out to a letter in their name. Was it chaotic, yes, did it take too long, yes, was there learning and progress, YES! All because a highly qualified teacher was doing an amazing job in a situation the budget and district has put her in, a true inspiration.

I am once again inspired by the outstanding work of teachers!

Best,

4 comments

  1. I think some state legislators should have to come help her with her 33 kinders. Ridiculous!!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. If only they would, though they may just criticize the teaching rather than understand what the students and teachers need.
      Shawna

      Delete
  2. Hi Shawna! Michalene here.... My sister-in-law is in practically the same situation. She teaches K and has around 30 students and no help. Most of her kids have an unidentified disability as well. Thanks for stopping by my blog! I'm grabbing your button and adding it to my site. I love this blog!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Michalene,
      Thank you for your sweet comment! This kinder teacher and your sister-in-law unfortunately are just the tip of the iceberg! I can't believe how anyone could think that increased class size, especially in K, is something that will produce the numbers "they" want...but when you have someone to blame for low numbers, all is good...NOT! I am sorry your sis-in-law is one of these teachers :( I wish her luck this school year.
      Shawna

      Delete

Thoughts and comments are always welcome!