--Today was the beginning of ISTEP for Indiana schools and my very own former middle school. I was asked to come and help the teacher that took over my 7th grade position after I retired. I was glad Shelley took over my former world and room that I loved--nice windows! She's a good teacher and works hard for her students and the school. I have been back many times, but this is the first time I was back in the scheme of things so to speak.--I was to help Shelley out any way she needed me and also to go to other classrooms and check to see if any of the other 7th grade teachers needed a break. It was fun to be an outsider looking in for a change. I knew the procedures and felt comfortable in the ISTEP setting.
--Students surprised me with their readiness to take the test. Maybe they are just resigned to the fact that this is the way it is. Half way through the test and during the break, I asked how the test was going for them, and they remarked it was okay.
--None of the students knew me because I've been gone long enough that none of my students I had remain. I forgot how friendly and how much fun it was to talk to these middle schoolers. They didn't know me, but they were ready to share their thoughts and the dreams they had the night before--so funny that they just start telling you stories whether you want to hear them or not. I forgot what great story tellers they are. Time flew by after the second half, and soon it was time to go.
--I'll go back tomorrow and see how they really felt about yesterday. I wonder what new stories I will hear. Maybe one will be good enough to share.
