By observing her in the classroom, one wouldn't guess Carrie Lenhart is beginning just her second year of teaching. Lenhart, a 2nd grade teacher at Central Elementary, is already accomplished in two of the most important areas of teaching – instruction and classroom management. Below, Lenhart talks about what it takes to succeed as a new teacher.
Growing up, our family had a special friend who taught 1st grade. She was dynamic. She would come over to visit and share many stories about classroom activities and many social issues she faced in the classroom. I was inspired. I then was able to watch my own daughter growing up, and I thought I really wanted to make a difference in other children’s lives. That led me to teaching.
My favorite part about teaching children is seeing them be successful in the classroom and building their self-esteem. To be able to watch a child get excited about being able to read a word is so incredibly rewarding!
The first year for a teacher can be challenging. "Responsive Classroom" training I received was a key factor in helping me manage my classroom. Responsive Classroom is an approach to teaching and learning that emphasizes that to be successful academically, children need a set of social skills such as cooperation, responsibility, empathy and self-control. For the first six weeks of school, I focused on teaching social skills and classroom procedures as well as the academics.
I chose Putnam City to teach in because of the support given to new teachers and the terrific ongoing professional development opportunities. I also chose to work at Central Elementary because when I toured the school before accepting the position it was clear to me I wanted to be a part of this team that provided a unique learning experience.
The training offered through our district for new teachers was also a key element in my success. The monthly meetings allowing new teachers to collaborate with master teachers were extremely beneficial as well. The support of a great principal and colleagues really helped me set high expectations for my performance.
The most important factor that contributes to a child’s success in school is the team effort given by the parents and teachers. A teacher needs to have open communication with the parent on board for the student to be successful in the classroom. Too,
Each day I do informal teacher observations and checklists to verify if my students comprehend the lessons I teach. After spending a few weeks with my students, I can easily see who understands a lesson or who is struggling. I go back and re-teach a concept or lesson, if possible in a different manner so that students can hear and understand it in a new way.I try to plan interesting learning activities which teach to a variety learning styles to keep my students actively engaged. I love to learn and I believe that my own personal enthusiasm drives my students curiosity which in turn keeps them actively engaged in the learning process.
This year I am looking forward to providing a dynamic learning experience in my classroom where each of my students will achieve success. I am also excited about our 2nd-grade team and the collaboration with colleagues that will help in my professional growth.