Wow. What a journey this has been. Looking back now brings a smile to my face every time. I learned so much this semester! And from so many different sources. I learned enthusiasm, resilience, and simple joy from my students. They also taught me how to look through new eyes. I learned management, love, and patience from Mrs. Findlay. I learned organization, preparation, and self-correction from my mentors. And I learned from myself what I can do, what I love to do, and what I want to do. I have gained a lot more confidence in myself as a teacher through this process. I believe that I can now trust myself in a multitude of situations across the elementary experience.
In all honesty, there were both ups and downs. Sometimes I was really frustrated with myself or the way the class was getting away from me, but there were also times that I came away with a huge smile on my face. It was a crazy ride, but it was all worth it. Both situations led to growth and I'm glad it went the way it did. I learned some things the hard way, but I've learned them well and will never forget them.
As a teacher, I have become more fluid and connected, more confident, and more flexible. As a student, I have gained an awareness of what it means to be the teacher and how much they just want their students to connect and have amazing moments - it's making me try harder and invest more. As an artist, I have discovered more facets to this art form that I love. As an individual, I have been happier and become more confident. I loved those students and they loved me - walking into the classroom and seeing their reactions every Wednesday was so fulfilling.
As I've said many times this semester, "Dance is true!" I've seen students grow and develop in ways I didn't think they would. I've seen them slide past reluctance into enthusiasm, and I've seen them make incredibly meaningful connections for relevancy. This art form truly has the power to develop and unite their bodies, minds, and spirits. I believe that through the interdisciplinary foci this semester, those students were strengthened in other aspects of their lives as well.
For me, this experience was successful, wholesome, and worthwhile. I am so glad I got the opportunity to participate as an ArtsBridge scholar this year and especially the chance to work with Mrs. Findlay and her beautiful class. I hope they'll be able to implement what we've learned together and let it enrich their lives, because they have enriched mine! And, as I've come to believe this semester:
“. . . A great teacher is a great artist and . . . there are as few as there are any other great artists. Teaching might even be the greatest of the arts since the medium is the human mind and spirit.” -John Steinbeck
My sincerest thanks to all those who have made this experience possible for me this semester. You are doing amazing things for those of us in your circle of influence, as well as for all those we have been able to touch, teach, and love!
