What inspired you to work in this position?
I always wanted to be a teacher as far back as I can remember. I am one of 6 children, and I remember lining up my 3 sisters: ages 4,3,and an infant, on the couch and teaching them using my first easel. I also got credit my senior year in high school for volunteering in my brother's 3rd grade class.This third grade teacher was my greatest mentor and I use some of her techniques even today. But a few more experiences pointed me in this direction. My senior year, I was a T.A. in a Resource Class. Then I realized that there were some kids in my own high school that couldn't read. These struggling students both perplexed and fascinated me. My Special Ed. graduate work at San Francisco State also motivated me and helped me realize/understand the wide range of special needs students, and more importantly, how I might be able to help teach them.
What is your professional goal?
I think I have many goals. Above all, I think I want to tap into as many teaching techniques that can help direct/inspire my students and meet their special needs; behaviorally, and academically. My students have so many different learning styles. The other day amidst the chaos of lining up for lunch, a struggling learner rattled off almost all the lowercase letters of the alphabet. He was focused, motivated, and succeeded, while his classmates chimed in when he needed help. AMAZING!!
If you could change anything about your job/services you provide what would it
be?
I would like to have another aide in my classroom. This year, my 2nd aide's position was eliminated. I have an excellent aide now, but mainstreams with two of our students during the reading time. I do my best, but feel like my struggling and emerging readers' needs are not being met. This is a shame,because these students have more potential than they are given credit for. They surprise me daily.
1 comment:
I enjoyed reading how Mrs Ahlstrom found her way into Special Education. I have had the privilege of substituting in her room where I witnessed a very dedicated teacher that truly cares for and loves her students.
I always felt welcome in her class and was able to take what I learned in her class to other substitute jobs. Her students are very blessed to have her as their teacher.
Post a Comment