Week 27

 

Week 27 — Perspective

Monday was President’s Day, so the week began Tuesday with a full schedule. A couple of my students were absent, but I was able to see all of my morning groups before lunch. After lunch I followed my typical schedule and then attended grade-level collaborative teaching groups at 2:15. We discussed data and upcoming 5th grade science test questions. After the meeting, I rushed to make copies and immediately began tutoring a 2nd grade student after school. I completed diagnostic testing before the hour ended and was then asked to meet with my mentee. She had a lot happening both personally and professionally, so I simply listened.

That evening, I received frantic messages from my oldest daughter. My younger daughter, who has autism, decided to play hide-and-seek without telling anyone — and she could not be found. After searching for 30 minutes and calling family members, Abby finally emerged from hiding. It became a difficult lesson between a neurotypical sibling and a sister with autism. She did not understand the seriousness of the situation, and as a parent, I couldn’t win on either side — only guide understanding.

Wednesday morning I had two IEP amendment meetings, which changed my schedule. Amendment meetings can be requested by a parent or team member prior to an annual review to update services, goals, or accommodations in order to better support a student. Immediately after, I had my pre-conference for my yearly formal observation. During this meeting I explained my lesson plan and strategies I would use to engage students. I followed my schedule the rest of the day but stayed late working on paperwork.

Thursday I moved one of my groups earlier so I could attend a 9:30 meeting. A team consisting of the staffing specialist, reading and math teachers, behavior specialist, support facilitator, and assistant principal met at the teachers’ request to discuss concerns about a student and determine next steps. I arrived late to my next group but made the best of it and then worked 1:1 with a student in the SIPPS Challenge program before lunch. In the afternoon, I was sick to my stomach from nerves as my formal observation approached at 1:40. I used an article on global warming and climate change to teach close reading strategies. When it was over, I felt relieved — but I also realized how much I genuinely enjoyed working with that group of students. After tutoring, I ended the day with mixed feelings — wanting to understand the context and history behind a student situation. An administrator helped me realize the team was actually in agreement, just expressing it differently.

Friday included an ESE team meeting at 8, IEP meeting for a student, student support services, and unexpected open time due to a field trip and absence. I finished one IEP, began an initial IEP, and updated data sheets for upcoming meetings. It was a long day. I realized I enjoy working with students too much to sit at a desk all day. I felt accomplished but also a little lonely. My mentee stopped by for encouragement before leaving, and I watched the fifth graders return from SeaWorld.

What I Learned This Week

I learned to see other perspectives — including those in my own home.

I learned mentors help regulate us.

I learned to believe in students no matter what.

And I learned I am happiest when I am working directly with students.