XOXO

The first few weeks are always overwhelming... but it does get easier. You start to be able to type up lessons and put together units much more quickly once you are more comfortable w/ what is expected.

It will be time consuming, but after a while you won't feel so overwhelmed

Good luck!

It can be overwhelming but teaching is not always what people think. We don't just get to sit around and play with the kids all day (I am not saying that is what you are thinking) There is a lot of information and studies that go into how to teach, how to reach every student, how to accomodate every student etc. Some of it can be overwhelming in the beginning but don't be embarrassed to ask questions (FM me if you feel silly asking)

As for the curriculum- I have been here 9 years and we have had 7 new curriculums Each year our school puts together committees, teachers and chairpeople, that go through the curriculum and 'tweak' it to make it better or easier or hard or whatever. Sometimes it also has to do with changes in the text book. Not every teacher writes curriculum it is a paid position that you must apply for if you want it. So yes, the district does hand it to you but I have helped write 5 out of the 7 curriculums that we have had.


Good luck Jen and feel free to ask away!

VERY OVERWHELMED!!
I am a first year teacher...I started last April when I took over a class (3rd) Now I have 2nd!

I am also in NYC and I feel there is so much BS here...Balanced Literacy, Everyday Math etc.....

When I started my Masters program, I was a full-time admin & had never taught before. My first class was curriculum and I was lost. Hang in there, it does get easier. Dont' be afraid to ask questions. I know most of my class were girls already asst. teaching or such, so they had a bit of an advantage, but don't be shy.

Also, schools almost always provide a curriculum in what needs to be covered by years' end. Currently, however, I'm in a private school, pre-K & basically have totally free reign, which to be honest, I'd rather have some set guidelines.

Anyway, hang in there...if you have any q's, FM me.

Cindy

Ps--where are you going to school? What's your major? (elementary/secondary, etc)

Hang in there When I started in September I was a bit overwhelmed but it does get easier!