netTrekker Blog

A Simple Gift

This morning I got up and read several articles and blog posts while waiting for my son to get dressed and ready for the day. One of the articles that caught my eye was about new teachers. I remember quite clearly my first week of school as a new teacher in 1996. We had first year induction teaching classes, meeting with our mentor, and many other meetings to insure that we were going to have a successful year. Much like Jane, I had teachers who scared me a bit more than inspired me into thinking I made the right career choice. Furthermore, I had no idea where to go for fresh ideas, resources to handle the various issues in my room, or even lesson plans for the topics I was uncomfortable with. I also didn’t have a colleague I could turn to that didn’t make me feel like everything I needed to know about teaching should have been taught in college. Topics such as talking to parents, realistic classroom management, and bullying were not stressed in any of the classes I took.

As you start the new year, if there is a new teacher in your building, reach out to them and give them the gift of your time. It’s a simple gift that will mean a lot to them. Don’t tell them negative things about the students or other teachers, but share with them the little things that will help them breathe a bit easier. Even if they are just new to your school, reach out. Let them know that you are dependable, resourceful, and a team player.

One gem that I would suggest sharing is the Teacher Tools section of netTrekker. Within that Feature is a list of great topics for any new teacher, including classroom management, classroom resources and even a few sites just for first year teachers. I really could have used the game templates. My favorite can be found using this path:
Teacher Tools > Classroom Resources > Lesson Plans & Assignments > Games and Puzzles
When you get to this page, click on more, and then go straight to the 3rd page. It’s a comprehensive resource of many popular television game show templates ready to use, created in PowerPoint, and with the sound effects. It was created by Kara Leonard in Murray County, Georgia.

If you are a new teacher reading this, or even a veteran, join us over at netTrekker Village. Feel free to start a discussion, join in one that’s already out there, and connect with other teachers.

Here’s to a wonderful school year to all!

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