I’ve been keeping track of what I need to do to get ready for the school year on a to-do list. It’s easier for me to work from a to-do list, even if it’s really long and detailed. It helps me to focus on one thing at a time because I want to check something off.
Below you can download my list so you can get some idea of the things I’ve been working on. Who knows, it might even help you think of some things you need to do. Feel free to modify and share.
Downloads
PDF: to_do_classroom2008.pdf
Word: to_do_classroom2008.doc
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Thank you for the “To-Do List” I have saved a copy. I am collecting ideas for next year. I graduated Dec. 1999 but I have been home with by girls (ages 8 and 6). I am taking this year to work on my Master’s through Walden. Next year I would like to be a paraprofessional in Kindergarten at my girls’ school while I finish my Master’s program. So, two years from now I am planning to be in my own classroom. I am gathering ideas and finding my style in the classroom through substitute teaching.
I am finding your blog to be very useful. I can reflect on what you feel it working and not working in the classroom. Thank you for allowing me to come along for the ride!
Karen-
Substitute teaching gives you great experience for being a classroom teacher. You get a chance to see a lot of different students, curriculums, and classrooms. I frequently use ideas I got from my time as a substitute teacher during grad school.
I think being a paraprofessional will be an extremely valuable experience, too. You will be able to pay close attention to how the teacher differentiates instruction for different levels of students.
Take note of the behavior management, too. If I could go back over my student teaching experience again, I would make sure I watched closely to see exactly how the teacher set up procedures and set behavior expectations at the beginning of the year.
Putting so much thought into your first year will be a huge advantage, too. Good for you!
Best,
Lauren
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