MsMurph's Journal (Page 1)

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Latest — Nov 13, 2023

Substitute Teaching 6th Grade Science - Part 1

This entry objectively recounts the first two periods of my day in a public middle school. It will serve as a stable reference for later reflection. I’m both appalled and fascinated, naïve and aware. There was a stampede.

More entries

The Crux of Education

In my quest to dissect our education system, I've waded through a myriad of issues cited from all sides. From family roles to corporate agendas, every book offers a new angle that bears weight. Yet, as intricate as the array of challenges is, I’ve formed a perspective on the fundamental dilemma.

Most Parents Work

… and thus, isn’t school primarily daycare? This idea has intrigued me from the beginning of my research. I'm going to explore the daycare perspective from multiple viewpoints using history and data. This entry specifically looks at employment data from families with children.

Using ChatGPT to Prep for 6th Grade Subbing

I have forced myself to sign up to substitute teach for a middle school science class. I made a goal to experience elementary through high school as a sub and I’m sticking to it. I'm turning to ChatGPT to help me prep.

The Advisory Period from Hell

I’m back for some subbing at an urban public high school! Today there was an advisory period where I acted as a secondary aid for the teacher. I was excited because I wanted to see how kids behaved with a real teacher since I know they don’t act the same with a substitute. Saddle up 🤠

My Second Day Substitute Teaching

This is truly a wild experience. I can’t believe I decided to do something like this. I signed up to sub for "Computers" at a different public urban high school. I’m a software developer and figured the class would be baby steps into the sub world. Nope.

My First Day Substitute Teaching

Holy cow was I nervous. I had signed up for what they called Grade 9 - Math 1. Zero experience with children, zero experience with teaching … but it's time to walk into an urban public high school and see what's happening!

Becoming a Substitute Teacher: Part 2

My background check passed so I had to return to the same district HQ building a week later to complete more paperwork and get my badge. Here is my experience.

Becoming a Substitute Teacher: Part 1

A friend told me that anyone with a college degree can become a substitute teacher in Colorado as long as they pass a background check. Prior experience with kids is not necessary. Considering they’re desperate for people to substitute, it makes sense but 👀 🤯

Reflecting On My Own Schooling

I was good at school. Don't mistake that for arrogance—it's more nuanced. I was that compliant kid who aced formulaic tasks and thrived on gold stars. Sure, I had a few squirms against the system but all it took was the threat of parental disappointment and I was back on track.