Final Reflective Essay Student teaching in my fifth grade class this semester has been one of the most

rewarding and influential experiences of my college career. It has not only given me practical tools to utilize on my path to becoming a successful teacher, but also provided personal insights about myself. I discovered personal beliefs and morals I was unaware were existent. The single most important realization I have gained from this experience is that no two teachers are alike. Each teacher develops their own ideas, methods and style that make them unique from any other. I have had the privilege to observe a number of successful teachers throughout my education and each has a different approach to the process. An idea that has ingrained itself into my belief system, throughout my time in the classroom, is the importance of meaningful relationships with students. Interactions with your students, and the relationships you hold with them, play a crucial role in the ability to shape and stimulate their minds. You must understand their perspective to truly ascertain what they need. In some cases, it may be a positive role model, in others, a support system, or perhaps, just someone willing to listen. During my time spent in the fifth grade classroom at Hellgate, I was shocked by the struggles many students are faced with on a daily basis. These can range from physical disabilities to emotional or cognitive impairment. It is easy to forget that students are dealing with issues, and have complex lives outside the classroom. Our job then, as teachers, role models, and mentors is to constantly remind ourselves of this fact and diligently discern the most effective way to teach each one of our students. How information is presented in the classroom, is an area I find to be of utmost importance. There is no single method of instruction for a diverse group of students. Each child has their own unique way of learning and interpreting information; it is crucial for teachers to

recognize each students capability and adapt to them. I personally experienced the struggle of having a different learning style from my peers throughout school. I am embracing this as my personal mission, to ensure each child leaves my classroom, not only understanding the material we cover, but believing that he/she can thrive henceforth. I endeavour to make learning as accessible and balanced as possible for all students. Teaching is, in large part, about adapting and being flexible for your students. After nearly three years of focus on elementary education, I feel I am well on my way towards becoming a successful teacher. I am eager to enter the real world and put all of my acquired skills to work, continually learning, making mistakes, and improving. I look forward to the opportunity to teach, and constantly learn, from my future students.