How can we measure a teacher’s success? Is it through the academic achievements one has gained? Or the trainings and skills he has acquired over the years? Or by the promotions he achieved? Or through the influence that he made on his students’ lives?
During college days, we were so idealistic in a positive way that it helped us to strive better in our studies and participate actively in several extra-curricular activities. We are so motivated by our professors/instructors. All doubts as to why did we take this course has paved away. Inspiring stories and experiences made our conviction stronger and made us determined to fulfill our oath to become full-pledged educators. But there are also challenges that were laid before us. They said that being a teacher is a tough job but at the same time, rewarding of all professions. They also said that we must be ready and flexible because we are not only going to deal with our students, there were also these colleagues and superiors to deal with.Afterwards, it was time for student teaching. Then graduation came along…Next challenge is the board examination. Whew! Fortunately, most in our batch passed the licensure examination.
Over the years, reality had sunk in. It is not always as what we expected it to be in the so-called “big league”. We were so young then that being dreamy and idealistic became our anchor. However, change is inevitable as we moved in from being a student teacher to become a rookie teacher in the field of teaching. We need to deal with what is really happening; the differences didn’t make us cower to take on the challenges. Instead, it helped us to adjust and develop open-mindedness and flexibility. Dealing with different kinds of personality: starting from the superiors, co-teachers, parents down to students helped us to do so. Taking on the challenge, balancing personal and professional life is not easy. We have to wear our smile inside the class even if we are crying inside. We need to upgrade our education by continuous study, enrolling in master classes and if possible, finish the doctoral degree. Continuing the teacher education studies does not only help us gain promotion but it also gave a sense of fulfillment as an individual. It helped boost our confidence and made us well-equipped with the upcoming transformations in the classroom.It also widens our connections and circle of social affiliations. All these contribute to the enhancement of teachers’ experience that aids in his effectiveness in class. But what gives us the most heart-felt happiness is when we are able to see that in one way or another, we are able to influence our students in a positive manner. When we see changes and improvements in their lives because these students were encouraged not to give up because of their problems, keep on struggling even at times life may be hard on them and later on be a witness to their achievements in their chosen arena.
By: MRS. JOCELYN D. TALLORIN | Teache II | Bataan National High School | Balanga, Bataan
