A short distance down the hall is KE's first grade classroom. This class of young learners has been joined by Alicia Corron, a practicum student from the University of Iowa. Under the expert guidance of Suzanne Yoder, Alicia, the daughter of Bev Brannen and Myron Corron, she is currently working towards her degree in Elementary Education with a specialization in Math and Reading. With her hometown in Des Moines, Alicia loves Iowa City and thus chose The University of Iowa in which to pursue her degree.
Discussing her specializations and how she works them into her practicum Alicia stated, "The class has reading in the morning and when they come in (from recess) they then do math which makes it really great for me to get experience with them in both areas." The arrangement seems to be a good mixture for Alicia and serves her well in terms of both her specialization and how she must adapt her teaching style with each subject.
Placed in the first grade classroom by the University of Iowa for her practicum, Alicia soon found it to be a good fit and has in fact changed her mind from teaching in the upper grades to that of wanting to stay in a classroom of students such as her first graders.
As her time within KE was quickly coming to an end, Alicia shared, "I've really developed quite a relationship with some of the students so it's going to be very hard to leave them. I do plan to come back to see them, they are very special to me." In tone and body language, it was obvious that these students have touched Alicia's heart and if their reactions to her in the classroom are any indication, she has touched theirs as well.
"Challenges are that they ask a lot of questions and they need a lot of attention. The developmental level is unique and I like it.", commented Alicia when discussing her everyday challenges as a teacher. Clearly she has learned that each day is diferent within a first grade classroom and she needs to be able to go with whatever comes her way.
Showing me a project her class created, Alicia stated, "We did a bulletin board based on the children's story Anasai the spider which consists of little spiders with symbols of their strengths placed within their spiders. Also on the board is the name of the symbol." This great self assurance project in the opinion of this reporter is one of the best I've seen in terms of making students aware of how special they each are in the world. A great self confidence booster to be sure!
In discussing her time at KE, Alicia has been exceptionally pleased with her mentor, Suzanne Yoder, stating, "I think she is great teacher. She has all these wonderful tools and she is so good to share them. She has a lot of insight, practical knowledge of first graders, and she knows not just the curriculum but the kids as well. She's given me a lot of information and insight in learning what first graders need to know. It has been wonderful working with her. She has a great way with the kids."
Best of luck to you Alicia in your future educational adventures along life's path. Something tells me there will be even more discoveries around the corner which will help mold not just the minds and lives of your students but of yourself as well.