In our School Signals blog, we want to amplify the voice of teachers and their experiences. Teachers who have not just years but decades of teaching experience carry a wealth of knowledge and insight—their reflections can help guide and provide community support for new teachers just starting their careers.
The first teacher in our series of Teacher Reflections is Montessori teacher Laurie Shields. Laurie advises, “Observe the children often and you will see what their needs are.” Let’s hear directly from her!
What motivated you to become a teacher?
I worked at a camp at the beach when I was in high school and enjoyed encouraging campers to explore nature!
Where did you work as a teacher?
My first teaching job was in Connecticut with second graders in the same school I attended as a child. Most of my teaching was first-third grades in Montessori schools in the DFW area and Austin, Texas.
Can you share a memorable teaching moment that had a lasting impact on you?
Guiding children in math and reading and seeing them have “a ha” moments when they realized they could solve a new math concept or tackle a new word while learning to read.
What advice would you give new teachers just starting their teaching careers?
Observe the children often and you will see what their needs are.
What is the most critical skill or value students should leave school with today?
I think the most critical skill is confidence – that they are capable of succeeding in the years to come. And kindness.
What do you hope your students remember most about your time as their teacher?
That they enjoyed learning.
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