To say that Brandon Van Den Eykel enjoyed his experience as a Substitute Teacher for Fargo Public Schools would be an understatement. In just a few short months, Van Den Eykel had the opportunity to work in four different high schools, three middle schools, and over 12 different elementary schools. Being able to work in such a large number of different schools allowed Van Den Eykel to gain unique insight into what it takes to be a full time teacher. He explains, "While a sub, I was able to meet so many different teachers and staff, and gained many mentors and friends. I would share stories, ask for advice, and learn every single day." Working in different schools, especially being at a different school nearly every day, does have its challenges. Van Den Eykel had to learn to be extremely flexible and think on his feet. "There were many challenges of being a substitute teacher for such a large district, such as trying to develop a classroom climate with a brand new group of students almost every day. This can be especially difficult when they know you may never actually see them again! Another challenge was getting to know each of the different schools. While each school I worked in was part of Fargo Public Schools, each building has its own culture and climate and I had to learn to adapt to an often changing environment." Though Van Den Eykel is very excited to have a classroom of his own and work in the same school building every day, the end to his subbing career is quite bittersweet. "I am definitely going to miss the wonderful students and staff from Fargo Public Schools. This is especially true of the schools where I subbed many times, such as Bennett, Kennedy, Carl Bien, and Discovery. Having the chance to be a substitute teacher in the same classroom multiple times made my experience even more special. I was able to get to know many of the students better and was able to watch them grow throughout the remainder of the school year. I look forward to having students of my own, where I won't have to say 'Good bye' almost every day, but instead can say 'See you tomorrow!" |
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