OPPapers.com

Teaching In Urban Environment

Before I began to teach I always had a high revere for educators. Teaching is definitely a highly respected job where they do not get compensated their worth considering what other professionals get paid. Since I was at a crossroad in my career I considered my options. I had a Bachelor degree which is the foundation for most careers. I trained (educated) most of the employees from my department. I have always liked children and young adults so going into the teaching field was an easy transition from corporate America. I thought teaching was going to be a breeze. I was sadly mistaken.
I began substituting at an elementary school in a low income area where there was a high need for teachers. I thought since I am a person of color I would have something in common with these students in order to have some sense of stability in the class. At first this thought mode worked for a class or two but if a teacher does not have academic work readily available for these students, things can go hay wire in a blink of an eye. These children were not disciplined and teachers usually did not leave work when they were absent. Since I was just starting, at times I was stressed out trying to figure what these students could do besides "free time". Free time in this day and age is totally unacceptable. So I spoke with the other teachers in the school to give me pointers and did research on my own. I did not realize how much work is put into a class lesson or the fundamentals behind discipline. After substitute teaching and taking educational courses in a Masters program, I became conscious of the psychological aspects of teaching since some students are at times disrespectful or vulgar. Usually there is something behind these students' actions but if they are busy with interesting academic work more than likely a student will not lash out.
If I could turn back the hands of time I would definitely do some things differently. Instead of vying for so much...

Please login to view the full essay...