Preparing…
Posted on August 20, 2007
Filed under beginnings, learning, prep, reflection, school, teaching
What I know about my new job:
- I will be doing something new for the school
- I will be designing a program that exists in the middle school, but for a different context
- I think I will have about 9 students to start
- According to the principal these students are not expected to graduate
- I will need to explore options…one of which being graduation
- The students are coded at around 24 and 34
- 24 – moderate to severe intellectual impairments
- 34 – language disorders
- The school is large – about 1100 students and has many programs to serve different needs
- I will know some of the students at the school – they were at my old school which recently closed (nice to see some familiar faces!)
- I know that I will find out a bit more tomorrow morning, when I go in for a welcome/orientation breakfast for new staff members
Here are some of the things I am reading to prepare myself.
Does anyone have any other suggestions?
Origins
“Developmental Designs for Middle School. … creating middle schools with students engaged in
learning in the context of caring, supportive community. Our goal for
them … responsible independence in the pursuit of excellence.“
Complicity: An international journal of complexity and education
Smith, M.W. & Willhelm, J. D. (2002) Reading don’t fix no chevys: Literacy in the lives of young men and (2006) Going with the flow: How to engage boys (and girls) in their literacy learning
Prashnig, B. (2004) The Power of Diversity: New ways of learning and teaching
Tomlinson, C.A. & McTighe, J. (2006). Integrating Differentiated Instruction and Understanding by Design: Connecting content and kids.
Henry, R. (2003) Leadership at every level: Appreciative inquiry in education
Elona Hartjes’ blog Teachers at Risk
Safe and caring schools in a complex world: A guide for teachers (2004)
Davis, B., Sumara, D.J. & Luce-Kapler, R. (2000). Engaging Minds: Changing teaching in complex times
Davis, B., Mahwah, N.J. (2006) Complexity and education : inquiries into learning, teaching, and research
The New Frontiers School Board’s Reports and Policies on Special Education
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I remember what it’s like to start a new teaching assignment at a new school with a new program that I had to design. Frankly, I found it exciting but a bit scary. I wondered what my new students would be like, and they wondered what their new teacher would be like. My students told me they were worried that I would be mean and were pleased that I was nice. (I don’t know what they expected-Attila the Hun) I really enjoy teaching kids in programs like those that are coded 24 and 34. You’ll find that you can and will make a huge positive difference in their lives, and you’ll find that the kids have so much to give in return. It’s not an easy assignment, but it is a very satisfying one.
I’m sorry, I meant to thank you earlier for putting a link to my blog. I’m honoured.
Elona,
Thank you for your kinds words of encouragement.
The ambiguity around it all can be a bit scary. This is the 2nd time I am starting such a program and at least I have the experience of the first time to remind myself that ambiguity is fine, though it is up to me to craft something meaningful for myself and my students.
I am excited to get started!