I watched the clock as the last 15 seconds disappeared before the first bell rang. I took a deep breath and opened my classroom door. Kids - all shapes, sizes, colors, and demeanors - began walking, jumping, dancing through my door and into my classroom. What have I done? I loathe public speaking, and now I’m not sure if I particularly like kids. Is it too late to back out? “Good morning, my name is Mrs. Blackwood and this is Pre-AP Biology. Is everyone in the correct place?” One pair of steely lethargic blue eyes glared back at me from the corner of the room. I told myself don’t worry; you’ve got the perfect get-to-know-you activity that will crack into that tough exterior. I took roll, passed out materials, and soon my students were quietly working on their interest inventories. Hey, maybe this won’t be so bad. I could feel blue eyes glaring at me from across the room. I took a deep breath, steadied my nerves and approached.
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Author -- Teacher Practice NetworkWe are a cadre of teachers from Arkansas and Oklahoma brought together through APSRC and a grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation to empower teachers to find their own voice both in and out of the classroom. Archives
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