Biggest Area of Growth
My biggest area of growth in the BEd program and in my practicum experiences has been the awareness of my mindset and how this mindset has developed from a fixed mindset to a growth mindset where I now have the confidence and self-esteem to tackle things that I would have never imagined were possible. My growth mindset has morphed into developing a love for teaching mathematics – a subject that I have struggled with for years. It was through the belief that some instructors had in me that I am now able to teach math, and actually have FUN with it!!
Prior to entering the education program, I remember a specific instructor who believed in my abilities. It is then that I began noticing the power of a role model and that “not all heros wear capes.” I will forever remember that instructor.
Going from my first practicum where I struggled to teach mathematics, to my next and next practicums, being exposed to teaching math and having university and coaching teachers believe in my abilities made all the difference. I have seen myself grow in areas of mathematics I never imagined possible. Allowing my mindset to grow and connecting mathematics to real life applications is how I overcame my fear of this subject area.
In my final practicum, I have fully immersed myself into mathematics seminars
(4 Part Series: Using Assessment to Move Learning Forward in Math Classrooms with Nikki Lineham). I have been in close contact with the district numeracy teacher and I have also attended the workshop “exploring indigenous culture through math and code.
As I enter the teaching profession, I know the importance of making math relevant using manipulatives in my teaching, incorporating Esti Mysteries and Splat from Steve Wyborney where math warm-ups kick starts the lessons. This makes mathematics super fun, engaging, and interactive. I have also taken math outside the classroom which is something I will build on in my future years as a teacher.
My biggest moment of self-discovery: never underestimate the power of your mindset. Believe in yourself – it will grow your mind in a very healthy, positive, and powerful way that will make things seem impossible, POSSIBLE.
Biggest Area of Strength
My biggest area of strength is being able to connect with all ‘walks of life’ and be able to “put myself in other peoples’ shoes.” My connection with people is profoundly important to me. Especially in these times of COVID, I have even a greater appreciation of the value in personal connections on a number of levels and with a number of individuals. I am known and have been told that I have made a significant impact in the lives of my students. I give openly and passionately, gifts that I receive in return though love, care, compassion, teamwork, comradery, and blessings.
My biggest moment of self-discovery: never underestimate the power of love. IF YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE, LOVE TO THE FULLEST.
My Favourite Memory
My favourite memory in the education program and in my practicum is the drumming circle that marked the end of practicum 491. This drumming occurred at Lheldli T’enneh memorial park on my last day of my practicum. In addition to symbolizing and appreciating our traditional land, this event reinforced the importance of learning and teaching through our connections with people, land, and place. What other way than to end a two year journey in a traditional and symbolic way that honors Prince George’s peoples, their land, and their special place. I am proud to call this place MY HOME, a home where I can celebrate and acknowledge history, culture, and traditions that make us proud of who we are.
My biggest moment of self-discovery: Never underestimate the power and importance of people, land, and place. Make these the cornerstone of one’s learning journey where this learning is holistic and authentic in support of the whole child.
My Cohort Family
WE ARE STRONGER TOGETHER!!!
