Week 9 As the Intern - The Joys and Discomforts of Agricultural Education Life

During My Past 9 Weeks as a Student Teaching Intern at Big Spring High School, I've Realized There Are a Few Things I like About Teaching... and A Few Things I don't Like About Teaching. 

What I Like (So Far)

I like that there are some students that look up to me. On days that I feel low, it helps to have a 14 year old boy tell me that I'm his favorite teacher.

I like that as a pseudo social scientist I get to try teaching strategies. Of course, some methods will flop but when you see evidence of learning, especially for hard to reach students, it's always worth it. 

I like that I get to help students accomplish goals by coaching FFA Career Development Events (CDE). Watching Creed Speakers improve gives me life as I too competed in the Creed Speaking LDE. 

I like that I am a member of my community. The local agricultural community relies on agricultural educators and FFA Advisors to perform many tasks that foster youth participation in a variety of events.

I like that I work with teachers that care about kids. My cooperating teachers care about the students we serve and it is refreshing to see. 

I like that I get out of the classroom at least once a marking period with my students! This past week we went to the grocery store for Food Science and next week I am attending an FFA Conference in Harrisburg.

I like that I can be myself around students. Listen, I'm a bit of a nut. Most of my students are completely fine with that. Others even support my shenanigans. (#glizzygang)

I like that I work with a community of like minded Agricultural Educators in Pennsylvania and the United States. These folks are 100% invested in what they do. Ag teaching isn't a job you just "settle" for. 

What I Don't Like (So Far)

I don't like that there are teachers who don't give a damn about students. If you aren't down with kids or being patient with them, then teaching probably isn't for you. That sweet pension isn't worth 30 years of disliking the people you serve.

I don't like that teachers have to fight for a professional status. Some community members may see teachers as overbearing and glorified baby sitters. 

I don't like that teaching is at least a 45 hours/week job with a 40 hours/week salary. Teacher burnout is highest in the first 5 years. That's probably because as a new teacher I've had to spend at least an extra hour each day preparing materials for tomorrow's class.

I don't like that some teachers speak ill of their students. Like are you seriously talking trash on a 16 year old?

For I Know...

The joys and discomforts of the agricultural education life are mine to decide. As with every profession or job, their will be aspects I like and dislike. However, anyone bold enough to proudly label themselves as a teacher will likely tell you the positive surely outweighs the negative. Those people have my utmost respect. 

PS...

I BELIEVE THERE ARE MORE "GOOD TEACHERS" THAN "BAD TEACHERS".