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Teaching in the middle level is such a uniquely wonderful experience. I could not imagine teaching or working with another grade level. I loved the daily interaction with students. There is never a boring day.
Middle school is truly about the whole child. Social, emotional, physical, and behavioral needs are on equal ground with the expectations for academic growth. We have the opportunity to reach, not only their mind, but their heart and soul.
Adolescence is a crazy and time. It is a time of dramatic physical and emotional change and development, and we have the privilege of being there to guide, support, and listen. Middle level educators are the wearers of many hats - teacher, advisor, supporter, disciplinarian, and even friend. Because friends tell friends when they are doing something wrong or hurtful. We are role models and what we do as well as what we say can have a profound impact on each and every student we work with.
There are three general groups of middle school students. Some students who are very mature, some who are very immature, and then there are some who are sometimes very mature and at other times very immature. Personally, I believe I still fall into the third classification. I guess that’s why I love middle school so much.
My mantra has been molded by the students, teachers, and staff that I have had the honor and privilege to work with, “What we do is serious business but we can’t take ourselves to seriously. Middle school is a funny place, seriously.