A New Teacher’s Reflection and A Mentorship Story
feature, life story
How does it feel like being a new teacher?
Stepping into the shoes of a new teacher can feel like a wild rollercoaster ride, complete with all the exhilarating highs and stomach-churning drops! The learning curve of navigating a new environment, adapting to a unique culture, and forging connections with colleagues and students can be a daunting task.
The institution where I work now has implemented a “Buddy System” to facilitate the acclimatization of new teachers to the school environment and culture, whereby seasoned educators are paired with new teachers, providing a supportive framework for navigating the nuances and intricacies of our school’s unique culture and routines. This mentorship structure is intended to equip new educators with the tools and knowledge needed to transition smoothly into their new roles.
My own early onboarding process did not benefit from the advantages of a Buddy System, leaving me largely to my own devices as a nascent educator. I encountered superiors who tended to focus on the flaws in my methods and decisions, amplifying the negative consequences of any missteps rather than fostering a supportive environment conducive to professional growth. This adversarial approach to instruction proved to be a challenging and less than optimal start to my career.
In the realm of early childhood education, a novice teacher’s success is highly contingent on receiving ample support to address the myriad responsibilities that accompany this vital role. From cultivating positive student behavior and responding to diverse parent demands to fulfilling the broader expectations of the institution, the scope of tasks can be overwhelming and potentially debilitating without sufficient mentorship and guidance.
Having now been entrusted with the role of a “buddy” to a new colleague, I am eager to extend the support that I did not experience in my own early days as an educator. The potential to nurture a sense of validation and stability within the teaching position is a highly appealing prospect. Even though my own induction was less than ideal, it is my fervent hope that this individual will reap the benefits of a supportive network that will alleviate some of the inherent challenges of teaching.
Photos of Tehjem
This month, the new teacher, “Tehjem”, had a birthday. I used this as an opportunity to get to know her better. Through discreet yet insightful inquiries, I gathered a compilation of words and reflections that served to paint a vivid portrait of this individual. The following excerpts capture her own thoughts and sentiments, providing a unique glimpse into her thoughts and perspective.
Few days leading to my birthday, I took time to reflect and have a ‘date with my Abba Father’. While I sat and wrote about the things I was so grateful for, I was reminded of one of my treasured moments with God. I was reminded of the lesson I learned in relationships; that even when I think I’m right and they are wrong, I still should choose humility over winning. My relationship with my key people should always weigh heavier than proving I’m right.
The thing about Jesus is that He’s sometimes difficult to understand. Through the years, He has proven to be present in my life during my ups and downs. He has brought me far, and even drags me further. Same with the career change. I never knew I would find my conversations with more than 20 kids therapeutic. I never knew I would feel this much desire to become a better person because the next generation deserves a better teacher. I never knew I would enjoy telling stories to kids who love to cut me off. lol. This career gave me joy knowing that the next generation will be prepared, and I am part of the preparation.
“You cannot choose your children, but you can choose their father” I remember pondering upon this quote when I was single. I thought to myself, “ah, I really need to make wise decisions.” and thankfully, I met a man who shared the same faith and values as me. But I also realise that my marriage is so much more. This marriage is not only a blessing to me but should also be a blessing to others. That is why our ultimate prayer is that we will be so filled with God’s Holy Spirit that we’d be able to raise God-loving/God-fearing children in the future; and that they will grow up and will be used by God to reach out to their generation; honoring Him and making disciples.
In her period of introspection, she has learned valuable lessons on humility, relationships, and gratitude. Through life’s ups and downs, she found comfort in Jesus and this led to an unexpected career change that brought joy and purpose. Marriage, she realized, is not just about the couple, but can impact others. With her husband, they aspire to raise children who love God and live a life that honors Him.
As I immersed myself in this conversation, I gained a deeper appreciation for the art of self-reflection that the individual so eloquently demonstrated. Their ability to pause, reflect, and draw invaluable lessons from their own journey was a true testament to the power of introspection, and I found myself inspired by this. As Tehjem keeps growing and learning, I hope she will be able to use her experience to help other new teachers through the “buddy system.” And most importantly, her story of finding purpose in Christ Jesus can inspire new teachers to be the best they can be.💙💐
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