Final Wrap-up : Family

I never knew that in six weeks time it was possible to grow so close to a family of strangers. Tonight marks my final night with that host family who graciously accepted me into their home. It is hard for me to think of those goodbyes tomorrow. I have to thank Ashland University for finding this family. Living with them has felt like complete home, as if I never missed a step, and never had the opportunity to feel home sickness. 

While spending time with this family, they spoiled both myself and the other Ashland intern as if we were their own children. On most weekends we spent our time outside or at one of the four Disney parks. I must admit, going back to the Disney parks after five years was such an incredible experience. Although it does take some patience, to look at the sparkling eyes of the children witnessing a dream come true, was truly magical. Each adventure into a park provided me with another opportunity to explore my own childhood imagination and experience a new type of "magic" and passion that does not exist merely in the movies.

I could talk about the magic of the parks for entries upon end, so I think that I should continue on to other experiences that I have had here in Celebration. Many days after school the other AU intern and I would lay outside by the pool, ride our bikes to downtown, or drive to downtown Disney and walk around for a few hours. We looked for something to do outside, to help us relax after a long day at school. Soaking up sunshine brought back a positive attitude in myself that the winter grays had hidden away. 

Other experiences that we had while in Celebration, Florida include : wild boar hunting, riding air boats, visiting parks, going to the beach, and so much more. After living through this experience, I can honestly say that I wish I had chosen the 12 week experience instead of merely 6. However, if I have learned anything from this experience it is that I have truly found where I want to teach. After graduation, there are three of the AU interns that are returning to Florida for a career fair, where we hope to apply, and earn our spot in the Florida education system.

Final Wrap-up : Schools

It is hard to believe, but this is my final night in Celebration, Florida. Tomorrow marks my last day in the school, and it is much more difficult for me to leave than I originally had thought. With that said, and my final moments in view, I feel it is appropriate to do a few wrap-ups summarizing the moments that taught me the most.

The diversity at Celebration High School is much different from any high school I had been to before. There are students from every background at the school. Whether they be Caucasian, African American, Latino, or other ethnicity; whether they be from a wealthy family, or a less fortunate one; they are all so diverse from one another. Many of the students that I have speak Spanish as well. The majority of them also speak English, but it is very common to catch side chatter in Spanish during class.

I think that the most crucial lesson I have learned from Celebration is classroom management. That does not mean to say that I am the master of controlling my students, because that only comes with years of experience. I feel more confident in my abilities now. There have been multiple students during my time at Celebration that have challenged my authority, and questioned my teaching methods. With help from my mentor teacher and past field experiences, I have discovered new tips and tricks to working through those challenges.

One of the most positive aspects of the school system here is the faculty. Eating lunch daily with the English department is the most relaxing portion of the day. They are such a fantastic group of teachers, who share ideas with one another, share resources, and are generally concerned for their co-workers well being. The atmosphere among the faculty is so reassuring. These educators are there because they love to teach. Many of them have come from other professions for that purpose. In fact, the creator of Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal works at this very school. Being around professionals who have such great personalities and a passion for teaching created a dream environment for an internship.