Practicum II

When I received my Practicum II placement, I was first a little disappointed because A the school was in Oklahoma and B the paper didn't actually say the teacher or grade I would be observing. Big let down. Then, I schedule an appointment to meet the principal and get placed in a classroom. So, I drive over the bridge to the small town of Moffett, OK. Population: 173. Yes, that is a total of one hundred and seventy-three people. Obviously, I find the school without a hitch; however, where on earth is the office!?! I park on one side of the school, which looks different than any school I've ever seen, and start to walk around trying to find the office. The school is not enclosed and pretty much doesn't have signs for people who may be visiting. So, I peek in a window to see a cafeteria. I peek in another window to see a gym like building. Finally, I give up and ask someone. They tell me that the office is located in a small house next door. REALLY? So, I briskly walk over there trying my best to still be on time for my appointment... only to be told that the principal left early and was somehow confused by our appointment time. What a start. Needless to say, I was not feeling very positive at that point. So, I scheduled to come back the following morning - this morning - to try things again.

Long story short, everything turned out great today, and I feel much better about my placement in small town Moffett. The principle, I later come to learn is actually the superintendent, turns out to be a really nice man who places me in a third grade class of only 16 students. (a huge plus in my book) Also, my mentor teacher seems like a fun, easy going yet constantly on the move lady who I really look forward to learning from this semester. I'm nervous about the change from observing kindergarteners; however, I know it will be a rewarding experience and one that will allow me to see what teaching older children will be like if I end up teaching an upper elementary grade. Plus, I'm learning a lot about the pros and cons of teaching in a smaller school district. For example, the kids get two snack breaks a day and seem to have more freedom and flexibility at lunch time. I guess only time will tell... but overall I'm feeling much better about my placement today than I did yesterday.

-------------------------------------------------

Zac and I had a really nice weekend. I got some much need relaxing time... and got a ton of things done around the house. Or at least it felt that way. I still feel like I need to do more but for now that can wait. I mean really... there is only so much one girl can do. One thing I do have to mention is that I HATE MICE. Why won't they die already?!? I know it is gross and all, but I'm extremely sick and tired of cleaning up mice poo. I have poison out everywhere - away from dog access - and still they don't seem to die. My next step will be to buy steel wool and stuff it into every semi-hole possible in the walls, closets, etc. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

-------------------------------------------------

Tonight in my Special Education class, I was told that I could get my full masters in Special Education by taking one more year of classes online through UA after I complete my endorsement. So exciting! Maybe I'm not a complete failure after all... in completing school in a timely fashion. We will see. I'm going to research it more tonight and see how plausible it will be for me to do.

-------------------------------------------------

Sad truth. I use dictionary.com/thesaurus.com way too much. I check my diction and spelling regularly... and sometimes uncontrollable. Oh well, if it helps me sound more like an educated individual, I guess it's okay.

Sad truth number two. Zac and I find tosh.o disturbingly funny... and I find it extremely too racial... but we watch it just for laughs and "I can't believe he just said that" moments. Oh, and I got rid of cable as of a couple of days ago. We still seem to have it though... I guess maybe we will until I take the cable box to the Cox store (?). I've received an email notification saying they disconnected it. So, I'm surprised we are still able to watch it. I'm not complaining.. For now, we will enjoy the luxury...

Much love,

Em