Teacher Appreciation Week 2011

[#1]

I remember my first year very well. I thought I had it all figured out and learned very quickly, I needed a little guidance. I sought out teachers that were master teachers on site, teachers with experience, and teachers I knew were getting it done.

I began to ask advice on things like classroom management, lesson planning, and how to work with parents. Because I took the time to "ASK for help," I began to make long lasting relationships with my colleagues. We shared lessons, worked together as a team, and our students were achieving success. New teachers should not be afraid to ask for help. It doesn't mean that you are incompetent. It means you are willing to learn and expand. By creating a team of teachers who share and work together, it makes the workload shorter and can relieve stress in every area of teaching. Working with my colleagues also led to cohesiveness in the school among grade levels. My motto: Work smarter, not harder!

M. Haile

[#2]

Congratulations on being today's winner! Teamwork at school is so important, it always makes me think of that old saying "it takes a village."