Uncharted Territory

Since completing my formal coursework and successfully passing the Praxis exam, I've been coasting a bit these first weeks of the semester. It's been nice to have some time for family and friends, to focus on my position as a paraprofessional, and to just have time to rest and relax. But in just a few weeks, I'll be headed into uncharted territory as I begin my field experience. I am fortunate to have the opportunity to diversify my experiences in special education by working in a setting radically different from the one in which I currently work. I'm looking forward to all I will learn  in this new environment, but it will be difficult leaving the comfort of my current school where I feel most confident.

Recently, I had the opportunity to meet and observe some of the students with whom I will work. In fact, I was able to sit in with one of the reading groups and as a result,  have been busy creating activities for use during my time working with them. Trying to find a balance between meeting their needs and creating age appropriate activities is one challenge I will face in my new environment. I've also been doing some reading which is challenging my thinking about teaching reading to older students. As I make preparations for the next leg of my journey, I'm already looking forward to being a Wildcat for eight weeks and getting to know my new students so I can help them move closer toward reaching their academic and personal goals.  It's daunting to thinking about moving into uncharted territory, but I have my support team, a capable navigator, and believe I have been prepared for this moment. I'm sure there will be many unexpected twists and turns during my field experience, but I also know I'll be changed for the better. After all, the best adventures have a way of doing that.

Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase. 
- Martin Luther King Jr.