Educators are definitely unique in that we have many things required of us that fall into our job. Every teacher has different requirements, but I believe Ag teachers have very strenuous ones on top of everything else. This is not to say that an Ag teacher's job is any tougher than another teacher's job, however as this is my field of study, I do believe that it is very tough. On top of grading papers, preparing material and lesson plans, teaching in the classroom, and dealing with students on the daily, Ag teachers have to go the extra mile. Three extra things that we must do as Ag teachers to be worth our job, and this is not the only three just simply three in particular, are checking on livestock projects after hours as well as driving all over this great state and others to find livestock to buy for students, taking care of funds and dates for livestock, and the actual shows. I realize that is more than three, but they would simply not do the job justice. Also, there is the training of teams, travel arrangements, and other factors. Now to really answer the question above of "List what you believe to be the top three roles of a teacher," I believe that a teacher must be observant to notice important things about his/her students to be able to properly teach to cater to their needs, be caring but firm and sometimes strict to keep order as well as maintaining respect in the classroom (nobody respects a sissy) and finally being prepared. By manipulating those three how you wish I believe a lot can fall under those.
Hey Tyler, I really think you will really enjoy Canyon Lake High School. I lived in New Braunfels for a little bit and is not far from Canyon Lake. I really don't know much about Ag classes but it sure does sound like you do have a bit of extra work, but I bet it well worth it and makes a big impact for your students. I also agree with your other three role topics, especially being prepared. If we are not prepared, we are just wasting the students time and our time. Well I hope you have a great semester student teaching.
ReplyDeleteYou are completely right Tyler. Not to take away from other teachers, but ag teachers are required to go beyond the classroom. Our job does not stop with the final test graded, or the conclusion of a lesson. We must go above and beyond to mentor our students and guide them into being responsible adults.
ReplyDeleteTyler I really enjoy that you shared how Ag teachers must go the extra step above and beyond. I do not think many people realize all the extra stuff that goes along with teaching Ag and how our days can start very early may not end until the late hours of the night. The three roles you described for a successful teacher are spot on. An educator that is observant and prepared all the time will be extremely successful at staying on top of classroom activities and stay aware of students needs. Good luck with the upcoming semester and enjoy your time at Canyon Lake!
ReplyDeleteHi Tyler, I have a friend who is from Canyon and my sister and her family are moving to Amarillo this summer. Small world. I bet you are enjoying your time up in the Canyon. It's beautiful there. I wish you the best. I also wanted to see if you wanted to come up with a small project with your students to do something this semester that would allow them to inspire other youth. I'd like to work with you on a Give More HUGS project if you are interested. Feel free to e-mail me.
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