Observations

I figured this week I would write about my observations. This semester I am in New Hyde Park Memorial High School. Let me just start by saying I would not mind student teaching there or getting a job there. This is an English Department that definitely has their stuff together. They are up-to-date with technology and with their teaching. For starters, I compare my experience here with that of last semesters observations. Last semester I observed at Mineola High School. Definitely a very different English Department. In Mineola HS the teachers I observed could have cared less that I was there or acted as if I was more of a nuisance. They were not very open to speaking with me and yet they gave me a mediocre review. First of all, I was there to observe and sit in on group work. Second of all, one word answers to my seemingly harmless questions did not help me in the least. What I do not understand, is why some schools even agree to allow student teachers or observers in their school if they have no plan to help us out? When I go into a school I do not want to waste their time let alone have them waste my time. Sorry I am ranting. To be honest, it was only two out of the five teachers I observed at Mineola that did not act how I expected them to act. The other three were pretty good.
Anyway, back to NHP High School. I love the teachers I am observing. They are all so forthcoming with suggestions and information. The are more than willing to show me different things and answer any questions I have. They treat me like a fellow teacher, with respect. From what I am told by some of my teachers, it seems that they all love the department and get along great. Their department head is great and helps out a lot but is not overpowering. They all feel comfortable in their positions and the students seem to love them as well. Bottom line, I am enjoying my learning at this high school very much.