The vibrant energy of an elementary school is truly something to witness firsthand, and my recent observation at Southside Elementary through my Intro to Education class offered a fascinating glimpse into the world of a teacher. Amidst the lively chatter and focused work, even Super Bowl LIX – the anticipated clash between the Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles at the Caesars Superdome – found its way into the students' conversations. However, the real highlight of my visit was the opportunity to understand the daily rhythm of an elementary teacher, from managing their schedule to guiding and engaging their young learners.
Super Bowl LIX, where the Kansas City Chiefs go against the Philadelphia Eagles in the Caesars Superdome, home of the New Orleans Saints was one of the many topics talked about during my observation at Southside Elementary through my Intro to Education college class. Throughout this observation, I had the chance to gain knowledge of what an Elementary Teacher's work schedule is like, and how they direct and maintain their classroom.
My first observation was with Ms. Swaim who teaches at a 3rd-grade level. As soon as I walked into the classroom I was greeted by all the students in the class and by the teacher. As I took my seat the students continued to stay on track with their current assignment and the teacher helped those who needed it. Soon the classes had a rotation and I was greeted by a new group of students, which then we left to go to their special class which was P.E.
Observing Ms. Swaim's third-grade classroom, I was particularly struck by her ability to seamlessly transition between individual student support and whole-class instruction, all while maintaining a positive and welcoming atmosphere. Witnessing her calm demeanor and personalized attention to students during their assignments, and then experiencing the enthusiastic shift as she guided a new group to their P.E. special, truly highlighted the dynamic and multifaceted nature of an elementary teacher's role. One day, when I have my own classroom, I hope to cultivate that same balance of structure, individual care, and joyful learning.
My observation at Southside Elementary provided invaluable insights into the dedication and skill required to be an effective elementary teacher. From managing classroom dynamics to navigating daily schedules and fostering a positive learning environment, the experience solidified my appreciation for the educators who shape young minds. The brief mentions of the upcoming Super Bowl LIX served as a reminder that even amidst academic pursuits, the everyday interests of students play a role in the classroom environment. This experience has undoubtedly enriched my understanding of the profession and further fueled my aspiration to become a thoughtful and impactful educator.
