Student Teaching Resolutions

With the advent of the new year and the onset of my semester of student teaching, I figured it would be appropriate to make some resolutions.

1. I will arrive at school at least half an hour before the first bell every day: This will give me plenty of time to prepare my materials for the day, meet with any students who need help, and just generally start the day in a calm and collected manner.  Not to mention, arriving early is a clear indication to my colleagues that I take my job seriously.
2. I will stay at school at least half an hour after the final bell every day: Similarly to arriving early, staying late can be a clear indication of professionalism.  Also, it will again make me available to students who wish to meet with me.  Lastly, it will provide me with a block of time to complete as much work and preparation for the next day before I go home.
3. I will use my planning period and any other downtime in a productive way: At first, I will have 3 additional periods, in addition to my planning period, throughout the day in which I am not teaching.  It is imperative that I use this time wisely and constructively.  The more time I spend doing work at school, the less I have to take home with me.
4. I will take time out of every day to take care of myself, physically and mentally: I know this semester will be stressful.  However, that just means it is more important than ever that I eat healthily, work out, and take time for myself.  By being as focused and productive as possible at school, I hope to give myself more time to cook for myself, go to the gym, and visit my girlfriend on the weekends.  The more mentally and physically refreshed I am, the better my teaching will be.
5. I will treat my student teaching experience with the utmost responsibility and professionalism– it is my full-time job: In the grand scheme of things, this will be one of the easiest times of my life to teach well.  I may not have the experience and I am creating most of my lessons from scratch, but I really have nothing but time.  I do not have a wife or children to support.  I don’t have a job. The only things I have to do is plan, teach, eat, sleep, and workout.  Throw in the occasional get-together with friends, and that is the extent of my responsibility.  The way I approach this semester of student teaching will set the tone for my professional career, regardless of the field.