life before death, strength before weakness, journey before destination.

Three days in. Student teaching. A novella.

I started student teaching Tuesday. I had a seven hour long seminar the day before, but it actually wasn't all that bad, it was just information overload. 

Tuesday went great, I was worried for... basically innumerable reasons. I wanted to make sure I was on time, which involves waking up at 6:30. I wanted to make sure I did everything correctly, signing in to the office etc. And I wanted to make a good impression with.. basically everyone.

I dressed very well.  No denying, I looked pretty good. 

I learned how to tie a tie again, I had forgotten. It's something all gentlemen should know.

Maroon shirt over a nice grey dress shirt, black and grey tie, black dress pants. I even got a compliment from one of the students on my shoes.

The kids were perfect. Well, as perfect as they realistically could be. But really.

I was worried (again), because I hadn't spent any time around students of middle school age, I've spent extensive time in elementary schools, and a fair bit in high schools. I've only done observation in high school, with a little bit of instruction. But elementary schools, I have subbed each grade  at least once, most of them more than once.

However, I grew to feel like I wanted to teach middle school as I progressed in my college career. I realized this around the beginning of this year.

Before I tangent on why I want to teach middle school, I'll finish my first thought.

I hadn't spent any time in middle school, or around many middle school students. But now that I have gotten into a classroom, I am beyond certain.

Now, as to why I want to teach middle school:

I hated middle school, no doubt. Worst part of my life. The emotional, physical, and mental stress was unbelievable. Mainly because everything is in flux. But, its natural. Its chemical.

So my original thinking was, "I want to be able to help the kids through this time of life". And now that i've spent three complete school days in it, its only been reinforced. 

It's the age when kids begin to realize that they're sad, and why. Its tough shit. I want to be there. I want to help.

My experience has been a little idyllic however, I am assigned to a great teacher, near my age, teaching the subject I'd love to teach, and we get along great. Not to mention the cluster of teachers that I am in is just as great, I am good friends with the math teacher, and the other few teachers are great fun. I want to buy them all presents when it's all over. 

I enjoy getting to cut past all the students during lunch, getting salad from the teacher island, and tea, which isn't allowed the students. It's a fun new school experience.

I have a hard time properly verbalizing it all.

I have a hard time properly verbalizing most anything.

This blog is a waste of effort.