I was able to communicate with my cooperating teacher throughout the week and decided to go in at the end of the week. I arrived in the middle of the school day while my students were out of the classroom. When they returned, they were standing in the doorway of our classroom, saw me, and bombarded me with hugs. They all came running into the room exclaiming things like, "Miss V! We MISSED YOU!" and "Miss Vanderzee! We didn't know you were coming! Are you STAYING?!" It was wonderful. One student was left standing in the doorway crying because she was so excited. It was definitely good to be back.
Because I stayed through the end of the day I was also able to communicate well with my cooperating teacher. I updated her on how I was feeling and what I was nervous about starting back up the following week. She was able to update me on things that had happened in the classroom and the new unit they had started. I explained that I wanted to make sure to come in to talk with her in person before the beginning of a new week so that we could plan the upcoming week in the best way for the students and for us (8L). We talked about next steps for planning and did some planning together during our plan period at the end of the day. I left feeling confident about planning and returning to school on Monday.
That being said, I'm also a little nervous about jumping straight back into things. I will definitely keep napping every day after school when possible, but I'm most worried about the mornings. I've been sleeping at least 13 hours every night still, and getting up at 6am is going to be a difficult adjustment. My cooperating teacher and I talked about how I usually feel in the mornings (my head feels cloudy and I often need to sit down and take a some time to gather myself) and talked about what that will look like this coming week. I'm SO excited to have a more normal schedule in the classroom and be back with my students, so hopefully it goes well!
Because I stayed through the end of the day I was also able to communicate well with my cooperating teacher. I updated her on how I was feeling and what I was nervous about starting back up the following week. She was able to update me on things that had happened in the classroom and the new unit they had started. I explained that I wanted to make sure to come in to talk with her in person before the beginning of a new week so that we could plan the upcoming week in the best way for the students and for us (8L). We talked about next steps for planning and did some planning together during our plan period at the end of the day. I left feeling confident about planning and returning to school on Monday.
That being said, I'm also a little nervous about jumping straight back into things. I will definitely keep napping every day after school when possible, but I'm most worried about the mornings. I've been sleeping at least 13 hours every night still, and getting up at 6am is going to be a difficult adjustment. My cooperating teacher and I talked about how I usually feel in the mornings (my head feels cloudy and I often need to sit down and take a some time to gather myself) and talked about what that will look like this coming week. I'm SO excited to have a more normal schedule in the classroom and be back with my students, so hopefully it goes well!
Welcome back Becky! We are all excited to learn that you're planning to come back to the classroom tomorrow:-) It was great to read about your students' reactions. I can certainly understand why they're so happy to see you. I'm praying that you will continue to get stronger with each day. Please continue to rest whenever possible.
ReplyDeleteBlessings,
DW
Becky, it's great that you are feeling somewhat better. Your students obviously missed you. Please don't push yourself now. It's ok if you take more time to ease back into it even if you have to come to school a bit later in the day.
ReplyDeleteGlad you are back in the classroom! I agree with your professors, definitely pace yourself. It is a blessing you have such a supportive cooperating teacher.
ReplyDelete