Advice from a New Teacher for a New Teacher

We recently began our summer teacher training program at TEACH Charlotte through The New Teacher Project. At opening ceremony, we had a previous participant share insight for new participants on what going through the program is like as well as that first year of teaching in the classroom.

Special thanks to Antina Johnson, a 2014 TEACH Charlotte participant, for inspiring this post!

Antina shared that the journey one goes through to become a teacher is a “set up.” The preparation is designed to set one up for success in a fulfilling career giving back to one’s community. Some general pieces of advice from a used-to-be newbie to a brand-new-newbie is this:

• In order to grow, you must have an open heart, mind and spirit
• Ask questions
• Remain humble and value the experience of others
• Remain focused on the end goal no matter how overwhelmed you feel
• Remain passionate to save a life by providing a space where students can begin to look past their personal lives
• Its not an easy road, but be intentional in all that you do
• Stand in expectancy for the goodness that will come from the fruit of your labor
• Students are always watching- be the role model they need

I agree with these statements. Any time you learn a new skill you have to be open to feedback and/or advice; this is the strongest form of  humility. That is the only way you can perfect your craft and grow towards mastery. Asking questions to better understand the purpose behind what you are doing or required to do is helpful in increasing your motivation for compliance. Having a goal on the horizon will keep you in the game until the buzzer rings and on hard days, is the only reason you keep playing. Working and living a life of purpose means you are intentional in what you say and do. This is an admiral trait of immense character. Students, colleagues, leaders and parents are watching waiting for any wrong move, but stand strong in your conviction of preparing students for becoming their best and showcase your talent and skill for all those watching. You are setting the stage for the greatness of a quality education. Expect your hard work to pay off because it will…maybe not today or tomorrow, but it will. Keep stepping forward in expectancy while doing the hard work.

Antina ended her motivating speech by saying “congrats on accepting the call and assignment to pave the way for students.” That is powerful. Teaching is a calling to help our younger generations step up to the plate and bat an unforgettable game- one that changes our future positively forever.

She reminded us that three things will see any teacher through training and that very first year in the classroom: “growth, focus, and passion.” I would even say these three things get you through every year after too. Passion is your gas, focus is your headlight and growth is found in your sleek design. All three together is quite a secret weapon. I would want that kind of teacher in front of every student in our nation today.

Aspiring and beginner teachers, we are so thankful for your service and dedication to bettering the lives of our youth. Hang in there, reach out for help, and feed your passion for helping others. You’re a special person with a special mission to complete and we applaud every step you take to accomplish that. Now, go be GREAT!

New teachers, what advice would you give to an aspiring teacher?

About the author, Gretchen

I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.

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