I’ve done a number of things in the relatively short time I have been in the work force, and I feel confident that teaching is the right place for me (at least for a while). So what’s the problem then? What if I didn’t choose the right area on which to focus? I am very close to finishing my teaching degree for Secondary Language Arts (aka English for grades 7-12), and recently I have come across two dilemmas…

One: My ultimate goal is to be able to teach theatre. Generally speaking, English teachers are the ones who do this in most high schools. However, in my state there is a separate drama teaching license for which only a few select college programs are accredited. I was unaware of this, and naturally, my school doesn’t even have a theatre program much less a teaching program for theatre. The good news is that my undergraduate degree is in theatre. The bad news is I likely won’t be done with school in December after all if I want to pursue this.

Two: I have been tutoring some younger students in math and English recently, and I have discovered that I love working with students in the range of 3rd-6th grades. As you may astutely observe, I will not be certified for those grades. It’s not that I dislike working with high schoolers, but there is something about the energy and curiosity of these students that is so great! They aren’t cynical yet, and they do have some depth of thought and understanding.

I can hear some select members of my family now- “Just when we thought you decided to do something with your life, you are screwing around again.” Maybe. Believe me I do feel that way sometimes. But maybe I just need to continue learning and growing and trying things out until I find my place in life. Maybe I’ll be perpetually searching. Isn’t that what life is all about anyhow?

Live to Learn,
Jill

www.teachers-forum.com/forum

Thanks for checking us out. As I began looking ahead to my final student teaching adventure before becoming a full-blown secondary teacher, I started getting, well, rather anxious. I suddenly wanted someone to hold my hand and guide me through this process. Or better yet- convince me that it’s alright to quit because why would I want to be a teacher anyhow?! Instead, my husband and I decided to do this.

The purpose is two-fold: provide a place for me to write about my experiences, thoughts, and trials while creating a forum for anyone to share thoughts, concerns, questions, et cetera. New teachers may seek help from veterans, some may seek inspiration, or maybe a teacher will need help with a really troubled student. Whether it’s something like this or a hot topic someone wants to get in the minds of great people (aka teachers), this is the place for it.

I hope you will join me as I journey through student teaching, landing a job, my first year, and beyond. Enjoy!

Live to learn,
Jill

www.teachers-forum.com/forum