The Observation

So... it's that time of the year again, No not Christmas, it's time for THE Observation.  I am a seasoned teacher (wait, 7-8 years teaching is seasoned, correct?) with many wonderful reviews/observations/walk-thrus, etc. behind my belt. I am a confident teacher and love all things curriculum, engagement, rigor, technology and building student relationships.  So, why do I freak out when I have an observation.  All of a sudden, my confidence goes out the door and I second guess everything. 

Recently I have been noticing on Twitter teachers placing the "Observe Me" sign outside of their door.  I think it's amazing for the instructing teacher and for the teachers observing.  All I can think of is when the Principal walks in, I get the feeling of when you pass a cop car and slam on the breaks even though you are going the speed limit.  I freeze on the inside and put on my best game face I have.  I always ask myself why am I such a nerd about this?  Why can't I ever get over it?  My answer is the same every time.  I just want everything to go perfect.

We all know when you have a class of middle school students nothing is perfect!  It's what is so great about class; the intriguing questions, that one student that is going to give you a hard time, the two kids who you have repeatedly told them to get a pencil, get up and ask for a pencil (errrrrrrr), technology not working, tripping over desks (did I mention I am super clumsy), expos running out of ink, office aides, phones ringing, a student trip to the nurse and this is all one class!  If no one is in my room except my normal para's and inclusion support, I just roll with it and have a great class!  We could I dare say it, have fun!

The teachers at my school are amazing and have wonderful instructional and behavior strategies that they are using everyday.  How awesome if I could just stop in or vice versa to see what's going on and continue to grow as an educator.

Am I ready for an "Observe Me" sign, not yet, but if you want to stop in please do!!  I am my own worst critic and it's time I get over it!

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