On August 29, 2011, I walked on to the GVSU campus with my schedule in hand. It was my first day of class. I had met with my advisor prior to registering for these classes and had mapped out the next three years of my life. I know, my advisor had probably thought I was crazy when I told her that I planned on taking 18-20 credits each semester. In fact, she tried to convince me otherwise. But, I knew what I wanted to do and was determined to succeed. I had decided to major in Biology and minor in both Chemistry and School Health Education. In addition, I learned about the Integrated Science Endorsement and chose to pursue that as well. In the next two years, I would take classes for my major and minors as well as the endorsement, and in my final year at GVSU I would take education classes, student assist, and student teach.

 

So there I was in the final semester of my college career at GVSU, doing my student teaching, when I was assigned to develop a field folio – a document which illustrated my abilities to teach, to lead, and to learn in a democratic society. When assigned the task, in which I was to collect two pieces of evidence which supported my abilities to meet these INTASC standards, I knew that this would not be a problem – for each of my classes at Grand Valley has had a purpose. The assignments I have completed over the course of my three years here have been meaningful to my development as a teacher. And even though at times I may have questioned why I had to do an assignment, I now see the value of doing each of the assignments as a means to fulfill my growth into an educator. These folios have caused me to reflect and asses my past assignments and projects. Through this I have come to realize that Grand Valley has prepared me well. I can use everything I learned through these years to support the growth of my future students. Grand Valley has instilled in me the need to make connections with my students and to guide and support each individual student. I have learned the value of assessment and differentiated instruction, as well as the importance of student objectives and the format of a great lesson. My journey though college has had its ups and downs, but I know within my heart that this is exactly where I am suppose to be. I accept whatever challenges lie ahead in my future classroom, for I know Grand Valley has equipped with the skills to be a teacher. I truly believe what I have learned over course of my college career was worth all the time and effort I invested, and this folio has helped me realize just that.

 

Teaching is more than just explaining information. It is about finding the key to a locked door – the moment where a student finally understands, and you can see the expression on their face that they have succeeded. Moreover, teaching is about developing relationships, investing in the future generation, and caring for the students in order to make a difference in their lives.

 

“Hello? Hello. Hello!” Suddenly, I am snapped back to reality. I turn around and I am face to face with a bright  eyed girl with curly hair who is smiling at me. I smile back and reach out my hand to greet her and say to her with excitement, “Hello, my name is Ms. Robinson, welcome to 8th Grade Science.” The girl peers back at me, shakes my hand and replies, “Hi, I am Grace.” As soon as the last syllable of her name rings out a crowd of students rush into my class. I look back at Grace and say “It was nice to meet you Grace.” I watch as all the kids file into their desks. I smile to myself and think, Thank you Grand Valley – for every homework assignment, every paper, every project, and every test has finally paid off. It was worth it all. All my hard work has brought me here. It is 8:10 am and it is my first day of school.