I have to say, it’s really really weird being on the other side of a classroom. I like it, but it’s different. I’m volunteering at my elementary school as I want to go into Early Childhood Education in the Winter semester next year, and I have to say, it’s not easy being on the teacher side when you’re so used to being on the student side. Even simple things, like where to sit in an assembly: Someone brought me a chair, and I was like “Um… really? I can sit next to this kid on the floor.” But I guess not. What’s with this separation? If I want to sit on the floor, why can’t I? I don’t get it.
I also don’t understand the whole last name business. The ONLY person who called me Jennifer today in front of the four year olds was my music teacher from when I was in kindergarten. I’m barely two decades older than them. And Jen is a lot easier to say (I think anyway.) I guess I’ll have to get used to it. If anybody can offer me help on how to handle the transition, I’d be forever grateful.
As for the whole idea that there are two sides… I can’t exactly scoff at it, but I can critique it. With that in mind, there’ll probably be a lot more from me about the way transitioning really works from childhood to adulthood- if we really change our mindset, or our behaviours as we age.
It's all kids stuff. 
You would make a good English teacher too!
Hey girl, I know exactly what you mean. I entered into the Private school sector where I am teaching now and it isn’t quite as strict with the last name business. A lot of students and teacher will say Ms. Sarah, which I like much more! But prior to this when I was in the public stream there was a lot more regime to everything. Old, traditional, ready for renovation in my opinion. Also, as a teacher breaking the barrier between students is up to you. Some teachers like the whole “I’m big your small, I’m right your wrong” and they stand up in a class and preach over the kids. But that’s not to say that sitting beside the kids, or having the class shaped like a horse shoe vs. single desk rows, or using group work rather than lectures aren’t small steps you can take that maintain your authority without drawing a line in the sand that prevents your students from feeling like you are equals. Best of luck in ECE,
Thanks. I hate preacher teachers. They bug me. Especially when they feel they have to use their voice (volume, tone, etc.) to get people to listen. I think the thing is, I talk to the kids like normal people. They’re not robots, and they’re not dolls or playthings. I think that’s what is different from me than other people who go into the teaching stream. I’ve had problems with preacher teachers and I think being aware of that; it’s like I have a guide of what not to do.
I’m not saying that boundaries should be completely broken; if a student tried to find out where my house was or sent me a phone call, I’d put my foot down, but I don’t see why absolutely everything has to be so rigidly forced.
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