Field experience and CRCT

It is so hard to believe that our block three semester is coming to an end. Where did the time go? Last Friday was my student teacher's last day. It was so strange to think that I would be in her position in a few short months. The kids made her cards with special notes and she brought in cupcakes and treats for them.

 

Although it was an exciting and eventful day for this reason, we also had another situation arise. I was caught in the middle of one of my female students kicking a male student in a "bad area". She kicked him because he said something "smart" to her and another student. I was blown away that I would have to deal with this type of situation in the fourth grade!! I was the only adult in the room when this occurred because students were transitioning into the hallway to line up for specials and my mentor teacher and student teacher were both already in the hall. I told all the students crowding around the student on the floor to continue out into the hallway so I could make sure the student was okay. We finally got him up to the office and everything ended up okay. However, the female student was sent home and had several consequences. 

This event made me realize that even though I am teaching elementary school, you never know what your students are capable of doing and how many things can happen out of your control. I was satisfied with the way I handled the situation and glad to see that the male student was much better by the end of the day. 

CRCT review consumed the school days on Thursday and Friday of last week. I think the kids were getting stir crazy and I was just overwhelmed.  I think it is so crazy how much pressure they put on the students to do well and pass. At such a young age they should not feel this kind of pressure. They have the rest of their lives to worry about school and getting into college and finding a job. They are kids who should only worry about having fun while understanding the concepts their teachers are teaching. When I was in elementary school I remember standardized tests, but we would only discuss them the week before taking it and I never felt nervous or threatened too pass. It just amazing me that kids so young understand these concepts.

I am looking forward to finishing my field experience this week, but I am going to miss my fourth graders so much. It has been a wonderful experience and cannot wait to see what third grade has in store for me next semester.