I feel incredibly lucky that been a Peninsula Bridge TA is even considered ajob. It is so easy to become wrapped up in all of the activities that time
passes by without even realizing it. Being one of four teaching assistants at
St. Matthew's, I have truly discovered how much the presence of each TA
means to the children and how much they look up to us as role models, whether
in the classroom or outside doing sports and arts activities. They gravitate
towards us, and we enjoy being with them.
Recess is the time you really see relationships developing, and where you
witness glimpses here and there of moral values among the kids. Whether it isbeing honest about the score of a soccer game or cheering a teammate on even
if something goes awry, watching integrity and compassion so blatantly
demonstrated at this young age is absolutely refreshing. It is also great to
jump in on these games as well, since the children not only have a blast
watching "the older folks" get competitive, but they also feel energized
to beat us at the same time. Playing with them rejuvenates me and brings back
my own memories of the playground.
When we venture inside the classroom, we see the kids hard at work, being
alert when necessary and helping their peers. Sitting in the corner ready to
help, I smile to myself at their eagerness to share their quick stories in
Mrs. McMillan's language arts class and solving a division problem on the
board with Mr. Gummerson. In either class, all the 5th and 6th graders seem so
genuine about the educational process that one really hopes their love for
learning will not sway, even a little, as they grow.
alert when necessary and helping their peers. Sitting in the corner ready to
help, I smile to myself at their eagerness to share their quick stories in
Mrs. McMillan's language arts class and solving a division problem on the
board with Mr. Gummerson. In either class, all the 5th and 6th graders seem so
genuine about the educational process that one really hopes their love for
learning will not sway, even a little, as they grow.
Working with the teachers and all of the students is a lot of fun. I cannot
wait for the weeks to come and see the progress of each student, knowing that
I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of it all.
wait for the weeks to come and see the progress of each student, knowing that
I had the wonderful opportunity to be a part of it all.