Some may think it's laziness, fear of responsibility, or some other type of ill-formed thinking, but I think the reasons that I want to be a substitute for a year (instead of a full-time classroom teacher) are fairly sound. I'll begin with my most compelling reason and continue from there.
1. I first became a student when I was five years and three months old. I have been a student ever since. I would like to gain some perspective on the world of working adults before I take on the responsibility of teaching and guiding 150 students for an entire school year.
2. A year working as a substitute teacher will give me experience and confidence that will help me a lot when I first get my own classroom.
3. One of my cooperating teachers said that if he could do it all again, he'd sub for a while before taking on a full-time teaching position.
4. It's a pretty flexible job.
5. It will allow me to encounter a variety of students: all subjects, all grades, all walks of life.
6. I'm going to be leaving in a year to go to somewhere in Alaska to teach. Who wants to hire me for a single year?
If you think of any more reasons, plop them in a comment and post 'em.
I thought of another one:
ReplyDelete- By spending a year as a substitute, I have time to refine my understanding of both the world and the English language through reading and writing.
Substitute teaching is a great way to see a wide variety of classrooms and see what works and what doesn't. After I substitute taught for a few months, when I did get my own classroom, it was much easier to set up because I had seen so many other classrooms. It's also a great way to see how different school districts function.
ReplyDeleteIf you are interested in tips in classroom management or being prepared and professional, review the STEDI.org website.
Good luck in the classroom!
Thanks for the words of encouragement, Jessica. I'll be sure to visit the website you mentioned - until I come up with some tips of my own, I'm always interested in others' advice!
ReplyDelete