Natalie Egan

Final Reflective Essay

Student teaching is an indescribable experience. It seems just like a short time ago I
entered Mr. Stieglers 6th grade classroom and met 76 students. I have learned and gained
countless insight into the world of teaching. Prior to my field experience, I was nervous and
concerned I would struggle with being able to find my place in teaching. However, over the
course of 16 weeks, I have gained confidence and assurance I can manage my own classroom.
I am especially thankful I had the opportunity to student teach at the beginning of the
school year. The most important time of the year are the first few weeks of school, especially
when students are transitioning from elementary to middle school. This is the time to set the
tone of the classroom and establish clear, concise rules and expectations. A nurturing and
endearing environment needs to be built in order to guarantee learning. Also, a relationship with
each student needs to be built on trust to strengthen the classroom demeanor and success of each
child.
A challenging aspect of my experience is the endeavor of missing student work. This
class of 6th graders has had a particularly difficult transition from elementary to middle school.
The adjustment to self-guidance and self-sufficiency has proven difficult for the students.
Students are not understanding that middle school is the beginning to becoming independent,
self-reliant individuals; in scholarly and social situations. Due to the amount of missing work,
the 6th grade teachers, school counselor, and principal have met to brainstorm interventions to
assist in student success. This has proven to be a challenging, yet beneficial experience. It has
shown me the significance of flexibility in classroom expectations and policies to meet the needs

of your students. Although at times it can require extra work, the end goal by far outweighs
current frustrations.
My involvement within a Professional Learning Community, PLC, has been very
rewarding. Although much of your time is spent focusing on classroom productivity, a large
portion is also collaborating with your PLC. It is gratifying listening to other educators
thoughts, views, and ideas regarding various aspects of education. I found everyone is eager to
find solutions when problems arise and come to solutions. Also, at times teachers may disagree
on matters or what solutions are best, however everyone treated one another with respect and
gratitude. I am very thankful for the support given by other teachers and administration
members.
I am very thankful for my cooperating teacher. He has provided endless support, given
suggestions, and provided countless feedback. Teaching and collaborating together has been
very rewarding and I have gained much insight. There have been times we have disagreed, but
we treat one another with the most upright respect. I have learned that although I may not agree
with how he chooses to design and conduct his classroom, soon enough I will be able to choose
how to design and manage my own.
One of the most important things I learned from student teaching is to keep learning in
order to improve your teaching skills. Read publications, attend conferences, reflect, and be
flexible. I am always searching for ways to connect the curriculum to the students lives,
something students can relate to. Engagement is essential, ensuring students are learning in a
fun, engaging manner. Use of time is also crucial, over preparing for a lesson or activity has a
better result than being under prepared. I tried as often as possible to step out of my comfort
zone and try new things in order to create a fun, engaging learning environment for the students.

Reflecting on my final field experience, I am very grateful for each and every day I spent
in the classroom. Although the schedule was the same, each day was very different. Some days
were more difficult than others, but I learned something new despite the sort of day I had. I
understand that my cooperating teachers teaching technique is not the only way, but I learned
some very valuable elements of teaching. I am beyond anxious and excited to apply what I have
learned from my experiences in the classroom. I cannot wait to see where my teaching career
takes me.