Back to School Brochure Reflection

In my 'Back to School' Brochure, I gave students the information they need in order to be successful in my classroom. I gave a brief overview of classroom rules and expectations, as well as a semester overview. This brochure is meant to be supplemental to the first day of class. I would be going over the brochure with the students in-class, as well as answering any of their questions and going over more specific information regarding the class.

This project taught me that it's extremely difficult to prepare for a class you've never taught before. I tried to create a feasible semester overview and reasonable expectations for my classroom, but found it difficult having had no experience. I also learned the importance of notifying parents what happens within the classroom. While my course is geared towards 12th grade, parent involvement is still important.

I think the overall layout and the announcement to parents works really well. I made sure to let parents know they can participate in the class on any field trips we might take or by suggesting material to cover. I also made them feel comfortable to contact me about anything concerning the class. I think it's difficult to reach all parents when their children are in 12th grade. Many students feel pretty independent, and some are already legally adults. I think that by going over the flyer in-class and then having them take it home for their parents to review is the best strategy. That way, I'm not overlooking either party.

While I feel as though the method of presentation and the announcement to parents went well, I thin the whole flyer is a bit vague. Like I said, I've never actually taught this class, so, more than it ever will be, this is a work in progress and a learn-as-you-go sort of endeavor. In the semester overview, I described the method of assessment, but never really told students any content they'd be learning. If we had covered the Idaho Education Standards in class, this may not be the case, but I feel as though I'd be lacking some content information either way. The rules and expectations of the class also seem a little vague to me. I don't know what rules to lay down because I don't quite know what to expect. However, I think I did a pretty good job without having any experience.

I'm glad we did this project. It definitely prepared me for what I'll have to do during my career as an educator. By doing this I've proved (as much to myself as anyone) that I can use Word to create an effective Back to School flyer for students and teachers to refer to throughout the semester. While it needs some adjustments, I feel as though I've done a good job with the task and information given to me.

http://www.spokentext.net/members/erintetreault/Back_to_School_Newsletter_Reflection.mp3