Miss Marshall

So I now have three days of teaching in. In my last post, I wasn't sure when I would begin; however, I got a call the following morning to come in. Meeting my students wasn't as I expected since I didn't welcome them into the classroom first thing. However, I was still really nervous and excited at the same time. My students have had a retired sub for the past two months and from what I've heard, are way behind. They all clapped for me when the sub introduced me as their new teacher. I know that God heard my prayers about attachment issues...there were none!!! I think that they are all just so excited that someone is there for them. I have been asked several times, "Miss Marshall, are you coming back tomorrow." I am so glad that I can say YES!!!

Even though I am THRILLED to have my own classroom and to be working with these students...it has been three rough and long days. I am exhausted....however, not enough to go to bed quite yet! ;) I have two students with special needs...one who is pulled out for a few hours during the morning. However, both of them are very disruptive and hard to handle. In my student teaching, I never dealt with these issues, so I am learning LOTS!!!! Please pray for me as I try to help these students as well as teach all of the others. I know that I am not doing well at that yet. As far as the other students, the girls all try really hard and try to pay attention. The boys...not so much. They are for sure trying to see what I am made of. I am remembering my professors saying over and over....be tough at the beginning or you will lose control. This is so hard for me, but the Lord is giving me the strength to get through this rough time. The past two days I have seen a small improvement already...it is enough to make me encouraged and know that with consistency, structure, and LOVE, I can reach these kids!

Most of my students come from broken homes. When we say broken homes, it doesn't mean the same thing. Several have parents on drugs. And several are in prison. Some students have already told me about their situation. My heart breaks for these kids. Hearing these stories makes me know that I am here for a purpose. These kids need love and hope. Those are two things that I am confident that I can give them...no matter how much school work they learn.

Well, I will leave with a few pictures:

My first night seeing my classroom...moving in



Where I teach

My very girly bedroom :)