New Darlington teacher Luke Ivey and I were lucky enough to attend the SAIS New Teacher Institute this past July in Atlanta. It was an opportunity to spend a few days with other teachers from around the area either new to teaching at an independent school, or new to teaching altogether. What an experience!
We were able to learn about independent school education, talk about our fears, and ask lots and lots of questions. And we were able to do it all in an incredibly supportive room of peers and educational leaders.
For me, one of the most beneficial parts of the institute was the ability to actually teach a sample lesson to the rest of the institute members, and gain valuable insight from their critiques of my work. The process was videotaped, so even I was able to witness my teaching in action. I learned so much being able to watch myself teach: things that surprised me, things that reassured me, and things that will ultimately make me a better teacher. Plus, it turns out I'm balding. I would never have known without the videotaped sessions.
I have certainly gained confidence and I know a heck of a lot more than I did before. Plus, I have met colleagues that I know I will stay connected with as the year unfolds. It was a great way to catapult myself into the new school year. The Darlington Community has made such an effort to make me feel supported. Thanks to the New Teacher Institute, I also have a very real feeling of support from the independent school community in the region, too. It's nice to know I'm not alone. And it's nice to know there are talented, passionate new teachers scattered all over the Southeast.
