What I got from the panel discussion last week was a very down-to-earth glimpse at the thoughts and actions of new and experienced teachers. Sometimes I feel that a lot of what we hear as new teachers is idealized philosophies about how we want things to be, and what some of the best successes are that a teacher can experience. But I needed to hear the "daily grind" stories, as well. Stories about struggles with behaviors, or nervousness about teaching, or flopped lesson plans. Although those things make me nervous as well, they also make me me feel like "oh, well, if that's a bad as it gets then I'll be fine."
Although I've heard many times that teaching is a lifestyle choice, it didn't hit me so much until I listened to the panel teachers. Especially Mr. Parker, who was on his way back up to school post-presentation to turn the kiln off at 9:00. Truly dedicated teachers such as those never stop thinking about their careers, and their students, even when the sun goes down. Sometimes I wonder if I'll be able to keep that up for weeks and months at a time. But then I remember that I was in high school once myself, and I did great academically even though at times I was tired. You just do what you have to do, no matter what situation you are in.
I think that what I fear most about teaching is just the sheer stress that can pile up so quickly. It doesn't take much for me to feel a little overwhelmed, and I hope that I can handle it when the time comes. I always have been able to in the past, so I imagine I'll be ok.
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