HILARY HANNA
Challenges: New and Old
It seems that every day, every month, or at the very least every year, there are changes to education. Some of these changes are passed down from legislators. Some changes are recommended by experienced professionals. Other changes are self-imposed. Regardless of the initiator of change educators must be able to adapt.
I have always considered myself to be one who can easily adapt to change. I often take time to reflect on my practices or improvise in the moment. However, there comes a time in every professional's life when they meet challenges. I chose to pursue my Master of Arts in Education degree through Michigan State University to better prepare myself for the challenges that lie ahead. When I started the program, I had three main goals: to learn more about the methods of math and science teaching, to learn how to lead other teachers, and to practice what I preach of being a lifelong learner.
The first goal was to learn more about math and science teaching methods. During my undergraduate program, my focus was on literacy. That course of action was necessary for elementary teachers. However, now that I am in the thick of teaching, I need to enrich my knowledge of the other subject areas. Throughout my courses at Michigan State, I was able to learn how to implement inquiry practices. This has become my favorite way to teach math and science.
My second goal was to learn how to lead other teachers. My goal was not to give seminars or hold workshops. My desire is to help my peers on an individual basis. The Master of Arts program has given me a wide variety of literature and practices to share with my fellow teachers. I have been able to start many discussions about the way we interact with our students and families. Several colleagues have come to me and asked my advice. I have been able to refer them to appropriate resources. I am proud of my growth as a professional.
My third goal was to continue my quest of being a lifelong learner. I always tell my students that they need to learn what they are passionate about and to use their resources. Earning my masters degree is solid proof of practicing what I preach. I have a fear that in the future I will be discovering proven educational practices a decade too late. I want to stay appraised of the latest practices and keep an ear in the discussions of professional networks.
For all of the reasons mentioned above, I will continue to work toward these three goals. I will continue to try to improve my math and science teaching methods. I will continue my work leading other teachers in an informal way. Finally, I will always be a learner for myself and my students.
A teacher, like his or her students, is never done learning. The Michigan State program has given me a great start on reaching my goals. Now it will be my job to continue this journey. I am certainly better prepared to meet life's challenges, but I will always continue to educate myself.
