Week 1
As my cooperating teacher toured us around the school, I really enjoyed walking down the halls as it showcased their students’ artwork – so vibrant and colorful. The students seemed really excited to meet us. They were quite timid at first but as the morning went on and after spending some time with them, they started to warm up. Everyone at the school was very friendly and respectful.
Week 2
This week, since it was too cold to play outside, we had indoor recess, and I thought it was special that I got to play rock paper scissors with a few students.
I thought it was awesome that my cooperating teacher uses students’ work as examples to show the class, either to correct together or to simply show an excellent work. She does this in a very safe and gentle way. She doesn’t shame her students about their mistakes but rather explains to the whole class that it is a part of the learning process.
Week 3
It was pink day! At recess, I had a fun opportunity to help a few students with selling pink heart cookies to raise funds for the Canadian Red Cross.
Before the lunch break, the whole school held a musical assembly where every student was very interested in as they watched a live band.
Week 4
I’m usually in a grade 4 classroom but I had the opportunity to explore the grade 1/2 class this week.
Compared to the grade 4 class, the grade 1/2 class is more structured and routine-based which I found very effective with this age group. This class was very diverse in their cultural backgrounds, personalities and their learning abilities.
Week 5
One way that the school honours inclusiveness is through a GSD club that meets every Thursday lunch recess to give LGBT students a safe place to meet.
The school also has a bulletin board for the club where they have inspiring quotes up such as “Be who you are on the inside”, “You can be anything no matter who you are”, “Pain is temporary, Pride is forever”. This school is so diverse, and honours equity and inclusiveness in a number of ways.