This week completes Ryan's first month of teaching at Valley High School. Not only is he the head of the Science department, he IS the science department! Being hired on at a very small school has presented some unexpected challenges, especially for a first-year teacher. The curriculum is minimal so he has been creating many of his own worksheets and labs. Sometimes he finds a lab that would teach a principle effectively, only to find out he does not have the basic materials necessary to execute it. Not to mention, when you are the only science teacher, you don't really have the opportunity for a quality mentor program that many first year teachers benefit from. Consequently, there are days when you can find him at the computer researching other career options he may want to pursue in the future. It is a bit of a comfort knowing that this certainly is not a unique circumstance, that many teachers say the first year is the hardest. So rather than waste time complaining, he just gets to work and spends many, MANY hours to get the job done as best as he can. He is adapting and discovering some ways to make his work load lighter. And he has had some really fun moments with his students already. The Chemistry class was super excited when one day they walked in to find out their teacher was going to be setting something on fire. In the lab, you actually make a hydrogen-filled balloon explode. This is one of the few things I remember from my chemistry class in High school! Anyway, Ryan's students thought that was pretty cool. He is also finishing up a unit on insects with his Advanced Biology class that he seems to have enjoyed. He's kinda got a thing for insects. Even though it has been stressful and tiring, I think that Ryan is well-suited for teaching. He is passionate about the subject, can relate in meaningful ways to the students and has a lot to contribute.
We have been out to the school a few times to help a little with organizing and cleaning his classroom.
It is fun to see him in his element.
View from the front of the school
GO VIKINGS!
Helping Dad put together his new chair
Lyra's idea of "helping"
Had to bring the birthday gifts she received the night before
Lisa thought this was a good place for Lyra to play
Should have done a before and after picture of the supply room--
We'll see how long it stays clean :)
1 comment:
Daddy and I are very impressed with such a nice room you have! I loved the pictures of the girls. Lyra helping was very funny!! I love the idea of a school with an out in the "country" feel....but you know me I have never been a city girl. The view is going to be so beautiful when the snow falls. I know the cold weather is a pain but maybe it won't be as bad as Rexburg. I have no doubt that Mr. Terry is an awesome teacher! I bet the kids love his class.
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