As a TESOL major, I wonder why I did not realize earlier how different the gap between elementary school and high school was. Although I have always been more comfortable with older students, I had grown to love the elementary school. It was all thanks for my collaborating teacher and my delightful students. Being able to teach k-2 opened my perspective on the learning needs of three different grade levels. The biggest part of being a elementary school ESL teacher is being able to have flexibility. Saying goodbye was very difficult for me. I had grown attached and comfortable with my classes. The last day was a sad day.
These students may not have realized how big of an impact they had on me. They taught me so much and brought out the best in me. I had packed goody bags for each of my students on the last day to let them know that they were great. It was a joy to see their faces light up when I told them that I had some presents for them. Kids love presents. It's a fact.
The day went by so fast. I felt like I had just started student teaching, and now it is already time to leave. Because of this experience, I have come to love teaching elementary school students. I hope to work for an elementary school in New York City in the near future.
As I transition in to high school, I fear that it will not be the same. I hope that I will be able to learn just as much at the high school as I did in the elementary school. These students will be just as tall as me, or even taller. Some will be only a few years younger than me. I know that God will give me that authority and strength to represent Him in the high school ESL classroom in the best way possible.
Perseverance is key....
-Amy
That is quite a transition! Younger students are a lot of work but they also show you right away how they feel. They are quicker to smile, quicker to give you a hug and quicker to cry. They also look at you like you are the smartest person in the world. I give you a lot of credit for taking on high school. That is something I don't believe that I could do. To start with all of the students are taller than I am so it makes it harder to look fierce. I also have a hard time with all of the mind games that they play at that age. Good luck and can't wait to hear your comparison.
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