This month I started my job as a teacher’s assistant. This role has been a completely new experience for me. I have never substituted. I have never worked in a classroom before, so everything about this role has been brand new. In just two weeks, I’ve learned so much! Plus, what I learned was not just about the students, but about myself and how I carry myself in this environment.
Here are three lessons that have stood out to me the most so
far. These things are also lessons I think I’ll carry with me far beyond the
classroom.
1. How You Show Up Matters More Than You Think
One of the first things I noticed is how much my attitude,
energy, and even how I dress set the tone for the day. I have not shown up
looking wore out since starting. I can see how arriving at school as an educator
looking distracted, or not fully present, the students pick up on that. I showed
up with a smile, prepared, and ready to help, the entire classroom so my
teacher’s job can go smoother.
I realized quickly that how I show up is also how people, I’m talking about, both students and staff can decide how to treat me. Carrying myself professionally and staying consistent has created a level of trust and respect that’s important for my role.
2. Your Tone Really Does Demand Respect
This was a big one for me! The way I speak to the students
matters. If I’m too soft-spoken, they don’t take me seriously. If I’m too on
edge, I risk shutting them down. I’m learning how to balance being firm and
kind at the same time. I am using my tone to let them know I mean business all while
being approachable.
I’ve noticed when I use a calm but confident tone, students listen, respond faster, and respect me more. It’s not about yelling or screaming it’s about being consistent and clear with my tone.
3. Flexibility Is Your Superpower
If there’s one thing I wasn’t fully prepared for, it’s how
much a classroom can change minute by minute. There can be great shifts in how
the students have different moods, and sometimes what worked yesterday doesn’t
work today.
I’ve learned to be flexible. I have learned how to pivot when the teacher needs me somewhere else. I have learned how to adjust when a student needs more one-on-one attention, and to stay patient when things don’t go as planned. It’s teaching me to go with the flow and not take everything so seriously.
Conclusion
Overall, these first two weeks have been eye-opening. I know I
still have so much to learn. At this point, I feel like this role is shaping me
in the best way. This role is helping me grow patience, confidence, and
leadership.
If you’ve ever worked in a school, you know that every day
brings a new lesson. I can’t wait to see what the next few weeks will teach me.
I’ll be sharing more of this journey here on She’s Found Strength. Subscribe
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