What a 2nd Grade Teacher at KIPP Northern California Wishes They Had Known Before Entering the Education Industry
Nina, a 2nd-grade teacher, advises aspiring educators to "learn how to ride the waves," emphasizing the importance of adapting to unexpected student behaviors rather than fighting them. This approach, she explains, allows for deeper student understanding beyond structured curriculum time, highlighting the value of presence in less formal settings to truly see "students for who they are."
Classroom Management, Student Development, Adaptability, Emotional Intelligence, Work-Life Balance
Advizer Information
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Job Title
Company
Undergrad
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Nina Paoloni
Educator & 2nd Grade Teacher
KIPP Northern California
The University of San Diego, Class of 2018
N/A
Psychology
Education
Education
Scholarship Recipient, Took Out Loans, Greek Life Member
Video Highlights
1. Learn to adapt to unexpected situations and student behaviors. It is more effective to adjust to the flow of the classroom than to rigidly adhere to the lesson plan.
2. Teaching extends beyond structured lessons and assessments. Meaningful learning and connection with students also happens during unstructured times like recess.
3. Prioritize being present with students and observing their identities beyond data points or curriculum requirements
Transcript
What have you learned about this role that you wish someone would have told you before you entered the industry?
That's a good one. I would say, "Learn how to ride the waves." We plan for as much as we can, but any given day, students are going to be themselves.
Sometimes it's easier to ride the wave they're creating in your classroom than to try to fight them. I feel like it's in those moments where you ride the wave that you see your students in a different light and have a deeper understanding of them.
Also, realize you don't need to get caught up in the daily lesson plans, exit tickets, or grades. So much teaching happens outside of the curriculum.
Challenge yourself to be present as much as you can in moments with less structure, like recess or quiet choice. This allows you to see your students for who they are, as their identities can sometimes be reduced to a data point within the curriculum. Soak up as much time with them as you can.
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