Coming from another state has been a huge and significant adjustment, especially with learning the educational system. The standards and regulations are stricter here in Texas than it is in California. The leniency in California allows for a rapid opportunity; whereas, here in Texas, you have to get an act of Congress, pardon from the Governor, or blood from a turnip. Texas has its rules and policies designed for a better accountability and accuracy of teachers in this demanding and challenging school system.
As a new prospect in the Texas education, I have learned that it takes more than just a piece of paper to say that you are able to teach or have the knowledge to back up that document. This has provided me with the inspiration to seek further assistance and resources that will enable me to not only acquire the skills and knowledge, but to also be able to adapt accordingly in the school district(s).
I have been given countless internet resources and databases to search for various and numerous ways to see how my style of teaching or how students can learn much better. As a potential teacher it is already tough to go into the classroom and provide the kids with instruction; moreover, being in the special education field, the teachings are much more difficult than just giving handouts or assignments. I have researched and utilized websites that will be beneficial to me and for the students I have in my class, such as: new teacher expectations, teacher guidelines, TEKS materials, TAKS tests, Special Education law, special education children & their categories, understanding behaviors, language, El Paso children versus the US, action plans, and how to involve and expect from parents. This is but a scratch on the surface of what is out there for what a teacher can evolve as a better educator and person dealing with children and their learning disabilities.
I have also been provided the opportunity to visit and speak with peers and other educators in the community to view and examine the types of students and classes that pertain to a new teacher, special education, and for the differences in each school district. My observations have helped out considerably and would have left me in the dark or even walking the plank if I had just stepped in the classroom first. These people have given me valuable and pertinent information that I can use for teaching, but also for being a true mentor and facilitator for the children.
My instructors and counselors at UTEP, past and present, have shown me a variety of techniques and suggestions to manifest and coordinate my style and plans to teach here in El Paso. I have taught challenging and diverse students before in a vocational school setting, which has helped me out, but the students that I will gain are in a different situation. They have all advised me on being patient and not putting emotion into the teaching, but to observe and use all the resources available versus reacting or acting out on a problematical issue or concern. The information is very vital in me being pro active and will be essential in how and when I do teach, as well as the opposite. My biggest concern was how to teach here in Texas and I have asked so many questions to just about everyone and I have received so much feedback, whether good or bad, at least I have a true understanding as to what is right, wrong, useful, or not
In addition, I have also participated in several instructor workshops through CETaL that are not only informative, but crucial in learning new ideals that will enhance my skills and knowledge for me teaching. It is better to learn now and obtain good data rather than having to learn the hard way or when it has gone awry. These workshops have come at a time when I need it the most because although I have not taught in a classroom setting yet, I have gained new skills and ideas on a personal level, as well as have me be there for another teacher or have me use it to mentor a new teacher when the time comes. Going to these workshops like reading comprehension, writing skills, peer observations, teaching large classes, and how to set up an electronic portfolio will make me a lot stronger in my field and more equipped to handle situations before hand, and may have me ahead of other established teachers with my newly acquired skills and training.
