Mapplelean Calico

I have been teaching now for over twenty-five years. I have taught math and science to fifth graders these past two years. I like math but am a little apprehensive regarding science. I purposely set out this past year to teach science the way that I wanted to be taught. My idea of learning is that if we can't eat or have fun doing it, then it won't get done. Learning should be fun and relevant. I started out teaching at Comstock Middle School. I ran into so many kids that were rude, disrespectful and performing below grade level. I always thought that these students weren't getting properly prepared and nurtured before getting to middle school. That is why I decided to go down to elementary school. I promised that I would prepare my students for middle school by teaching the whole child. I have always had the belief as a teacher that the parent and I shared joint custody of my students. I felt as if we are raising them together. I have a vested interest in my students. I live and work in my community. My school is less than five minutes from my school. I need to ensure that my students are prepared for the world. I love teaching and reaching my students. I consider myself a translator, not an eductor. My students come to me educated, just not in the standard testing criteria way. I just have to translate the knowledge into a form that they can find the relevance in their life. Success depends on who is measuring and what tool is being used. All of my students can and will be successful, no matter what. I have been teaching now for over twenty-five years. I have taught math and science to fifth graders these past two years. I like math but am a little apprehensive... read more