Today was the first day that we had virtual visits from the administrators at our campus. Since the beginning of the school year we learned that they were going to do this. Our district is implementing a 90 minute model, where the students are active with us for 30 minutes, 30 minutes of independent practice, and 30 minutes of independent work. However, how much can you really connect with the students if you do that? You see them for 30 minutes and are there to answer questions but...that doesn't really feel like a class now does it?
I don't teach in a 90 minute cycle if I can avoid it. I also don't lecture more than 30 minutes. I break it down into mini cycles. I know some of my students have a hard time writing and listening at the same time. So I give them 20 minutes to write their notes, and I go over them in the next 20. Then I provide a mind map, an AVID strategy, or even a practice worksheet for us to do. I show them how to do it, go over a few parts of it with them and then let them work on it.
For me, every class is different, and part of being a good teacher is to know your students and how they learn. Not one of my classes is conducted the same. Some have more time to do certain things, some have modified assignments, ect. Not one class is the same even if it is the same information. Anyhow back to the admins.
The walk-through for both admins today were just so strange. Admin A walked in during the independent practice, as my students were completing a mind map. Admin A didn't say a word. I noticed because I was looking at the attendance list. Admin B on the other hand, introduced herself/himself. Of course, my students know how to control the PowerPoint on their own already, they already know how to do Cornell notes, and they already know how long they have. I had to let this admin know the kids were taking notes and that they could control the PowerPoint on their own....he/she called it "magic".
I have come to the realization that we don't really know what to expect when an admin walks in. There could be a lot going on in your class behind the screen...but all they see is a PowerPoint. Both times I freaked out. Not because my lesson wasn't good, but because the truth of the matter is....the admin only saw a PowerPoint and silence. I never thought it would feel so strange. But to my teachers out there who are feeling overwhelmed. It is okay. Trust that the magic is happening outside the screen. That the magic is happening as they are listening to you speak, as they are trying their very best to learn in a world that is very different from anything we have ever lived before. Be patient and remember that kids know you care.
