An identity is something a person is known for – a specific characteristic that makes that one person who they are as an individual. By becoming a tutor at Jamesfield Elementary School, I believe I have grown in a various amount of ways. Even though this certain classroom is not my own, I feel welcome and accepted within my surroundings. Just to be part of these student’s lives, I feel honored to help them in any possible way I can, even if helping them consists of something simple.
As a young child I always wanted to become a teacher. I love observing children in different environments other than their comfort zone. The one thing I enjoy doing the most is helping people. No matter what age or sociocultural background they come from, I am willing to lend a helping hand. Because I was raised into a family that always seemed to care, I find the importance to reach out to others in need. By becoming a teacher, I believe I can try my best to assist youngsters with their troubles in school.
One little boy in particular I seem to favor – not on purpose. Whenever Larry sees me, he always has a huge smile on his face with a story to tell. He is always looking to be the center of attention. Last week when I walked into the classroom, he ran over to me and would not let me go. He always feels the need to put himself out there for others to recognize him. My heart reaches out to Larry because he seems like the type of child who lacks attention outside of school. He is as cute as a button and always has a positive remark about certain subjects. He questions different things as to why I wear my hair a certain way or why my nails are bright pink. He is curious to why it rains one day and is sunny the next. Larry also questions different learning strategies within the classroom such as why 1+1 =2 or why 9-6=3. By observing his way of thinking, I believe it relates to Ira Shor. (Empowering Education) Shor believes that students should question things and be heard within a classroom. Ira Shor’s critical pedagogy deals with students questioning and challenging beliefs. Students should gradually build confidence to speak out and ask questions. As for Larry, he is not afraid to do so. He shows leadership and empowerment dealing with certain subjects of learning.
So far, this tutoring experience has been amazing. I really do enjoy walking through the doors of Jamesfield Elementary School to see all of the little arms waving and the faces smiling back at me. I believe this was the call for me to peruse a job in the field of education because I know the children need someone like me who is willing to lend a helping hand. Because of this experience, my teacher identity is now raised to a level where I can see success, a type of success that I am ready to achieve.
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I understand your reasons for wanting to be a teacher because mine are very similar. I've always considered being a teacher because I feel it is a way to make a difference even if it is just for one child. A big part of being a teacher is wanting to help and inspire children and it sounds like that is something that you really aspire for. You talked about one little boy who inspired you and reinforced your want to be a teacher and to help. When I was younger and taught a dance class I had a similar experience. There was a special needs girl in my dance class who was deaf and looked up to me, and I always helped her to learn. Her joy and happiness that came from learning the dance inspired me to want to help other children. This girl is a big part of the reason why I want to be a teacher and why I realize that teaching could be so rewarding. Reading your blog it sounds like you are on your way to being an excellent teacher. Good luck in the future!:)
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