Motivation

I have several students that are extremely smart, but they are not motivated to learn or even try to learn. They do not really see themselves being successful or continueing their education, so they do not want to put forth any effort. I try to motivate them, but it seems they would rather put their effort into getting into trouble rather than their work. It doesn't matter what rewards they get, it just is not enough. I want them to be successful and I am trying to build their confidence for their future.

Pressure

I never thought that I would be consumed with the FCAT test, but lating I feel so anxious about the upcoming testing. I did not realize how much pressure is placed on teachers and schools! I was creating lesson plans, and I am constantly asking myself...'is this important for them to have for the FCAT?' I feel as though I am trying to teach the students, but we are discussing the different ways they are going to see it on 'the test.' When we gave them the practice test, our kids did not do as well as we hoped, but the main cause was the wording/stories. Our schools future is based on this test and the pressure is overwhelming. Teaching has changed tremendously since I was in elementary and it is not what I remember! I am just anxious for the test to be over with so I can teach :)

Hello and Welcome!

This is my first experience as a 'blogger,' but I am looking forward to this experience and I am also curious about this site. I am a first year teacher in a 5th grade classroom in a very diverse classroom. I have a very unique and wonderful classroom and I have already had great experiences and many challenges. I cannot imagine being in any other profession and I can honestly say: I LOVE MY JOB! I am also the team leader for my PLC and this has been a challenge this year. I am dealing with the pressure of being a first year teacher in a Corrective 2 school and trying to lead teachers that have been in the profession for 15 plus years. I am honored to have the title, but it is very stressful. I also coach softball and am currently working at Hungry Howies part-time. I enjoy challenges and I am so thankful for the opportunity and the experience of being able to work in a diverse school. There are a lot of challenges and obstacles, but I could not see myself working in any other school. I look forward to all of the discussions and opinions from this course. I look forward to this experience and I know that I am going to learn a lot from our discussions and 'blogs.'