Do you wear the rookie badge proudly?

My first official week of teaching alone in the classroom is under my belt. I felt every emotion possible last week. Pure joy and excitement that the door of Room 604 says Ms. Popple's Class. But I also felt mad, frustrated, anxious, happy, and a little out of place. For me, feeling all of these emotions made sense because I entered a classroom at the middle of the year that didn't feel like "mine" yet. The students have already had 2 teachers, so they're all a little unsure about the third (me). They worked on testing my nerves and patience, but they also made me feel confident in my abilities to quiet them down and teach them. Some of the best moments were when we were sitting together on the floor reading a book. Needless to say, I was excited for my first week to end. I am looking forward to creating lessons and activities that are more engaging and exciting for all levels of learners. But I'm also ready for students to know my expectations in the classroom...I know that comes with time.

Week two started with an unexpected early release from school yesterday. Of course, students were wired and excited about the snow. And I can't blame them. But I made sure my class had plenty to do to keep them distracted. Once students were released, I stayed and organized my desk, student's desks, and hung some posters. I'm hopeful each of these things will help my students stay on task and work together - but I also know the environment will be beneficial to me and my ability to teach them.

With this new job comes loads of paperwork, meetings, oh and did I mention report card grades are due in less than 2 weeks. I think the man upstairs is watching out for me - a day off today is just what I needed to catch up. I have been working on report card grades for my math class today. Those are due by Friday of this week. There's a lot to do and to think about when you're a homeroom teacher, but more when you're a new teacher (just out of college). I think I'm doing well and handling all of the pressures as they hit me, but I know I can do better. I am proudly wearing the rookie badge and I'm thankful for my team of teachers! I'm pretty sure I've asked them a million questions a day so far. But they're amazing and all are very willing to help.

I wanted to share a great resource that I think has been very beneficial to my class. I created a classroom website to help keep parents connected to the classroom happenings. Check it out - http://misspopplesclass.weebly.com/. I created it using weebly.com. Once you create an account, you can choose any type of layout or display you want. It's very easy to navigate and change. Each week, I make sure I add homework assignments and other necessary tools students might need if they forget something at school. I also post newsletters, the classroom wishlist, and our class rules/consequences/rewards for parents.

My biggest piece of advice is "don't be afraid to ask questions." I have asked quite a few and feel like I learn something new from each of the people I ask. Everyone in a school has a unique skill set and they can teach you a lot. I have sough help from the technology teacher on down to the custodian. Time is the one thing that is scarce, but knowing who you can contact for help is essential.

Ask away and wear the rookie badge proudly - I definitely am!