Student Teaching

I started student teaching this week. For those of you who aren't familiar with the process, it is my last step in becoming a real teacher. A real PAID teacher that is. It is also very hard. Not only do I have to take control of the classroom, but I am being watched and critiqued constantly by two master teachers. I have been observing them for going on three weeks now, so I sort of know them, but on the other hand, I am a stranger in their rooms and they are expected to simply give over the reins to me. Of course, they agreed to be master teachers, and I'm sure there is some form of compensation, but it must be hard for them to deal with.
So far I think I've done a good job. Nothing too major has happened. Of course, I am only three days into taking the classroom over completely, so it is still very early in the process. I did a cute little power point and they all liked it. Then I had them write me a letter about themselves. Some of their stories were sad. Some were happy. Nothing too crazy. My students are accelerated students, so they are the top of the school. However, they are only 11, so their problems are pretty varied. I have kids who barely reach my shoulder and I have kids who are five inches taller than me. The grouping of students is absolutely crazy. To have this wide variety of psychological and physical development all shoved together in one place is pretty nuts. Oh well. It is fun. I am having a good time. I guess that is all that matters. If I hated it, I would have wasted the last two years.