In Desperate Need of A Time Machine

Today we had half-day planning. The first part of the day all the kindergarten teachers had substitutes in their rooms so they could all get together with the skills specialist and plan out the next six weeks activities and lessons. The skills specialist is in charge of making sure the curriculum aligns with the TEKS and for laying out the sequence and scope of the topics covered. Because of this structure the teachers are restricted in what they could do with the students, but working together they found ways to make their lessons unique and individualized. They also changed some of the sequence and length of social studies units, which is allowed as long as they cover what is required. The thing that really struck me the most was the fact that although I was helping to plan I would not be there for the time period at all. It made me realize that the time I had with my students would soon be done and I wouldn't be seeing any of these lessons being put into action. It made me sad  that I would have to leave soon because I really enjoy working with my students and the teachers. I would love to stay, but I know that the second part of my student teaching will also provide me with unique and challenging opportunities. In the meantime if anyone has a time machine so I can go back to the beginning I'd love the chance to repeat and get even more out of my time.