Induction- Day 2

Today was an incredible day. I thought I was already invested in closing the achievement gap in education, but after hearing everyone speak today, I realize that I had no idea how much more invested I could be. After today, I realize not only that TFA was the perfect choice for  me, but that their mission is my mission. I know it sounds cliche, but I'm so happy that I'm working for an organization that cares so much and does so much good.

Day 2 was basically just an influx of information. After discovering how teeny the coffee cups were at breakfast, I was a little worried that I wouldn't be able to stay focused during all the sessions.  I was wrong. First we learned about transformational change. We learned about the inequality in education, and how we can battle that inequality.  Then we learned about leadership. We discussed successful teachers and how we can be as successful at bringing about change. We then learned about how we can apply challenges we have faced to challenges we'll face as teachers.  We learned 4 beliefs that will help us as we teach, and I thought there were pretty fantastic, so I'll share them here.
1) Great teaching is a learnable skill.
2) The best way to guide my improvement is to look at real evidence of students' learning.
3) I am responsible for my own development.
4) I am not alone.
It was great to talk about how great teachers don't start as great teachers. Everyone has to learn and grow as a teacher, which was a relief to talk about. Beliefs #2 and #3 are good, but I felt like #4 was really important. I feel so lucky to be starting as a teacher with TFA, because we have so much support around us. After just 2 days, I already feel close to the other CM's, and I just know that the TFA-AL staff is the best in the country. I feel like I already have so much support from them.
Then we talked about interview preparation, which was helpful, but terrifying. Lots of small little cultural things that I never would have thought about. Like using "sir" and "ma'am."
Then we listened to a panel of community members (teachers, administrators, board of education members, etc.) They were great. Very helpful and interesting. Then we had a community dinner, where we talked to teachers, lawyers, etc. from all over AL. Lots of fun conversations.

Back at the dorm now, getting ready for interview practice with my roommate and another CM, Kellie. Sorry if this post is kind of ridiculous-sounding, but after a day like today, my mind is so filled with educational inequality stuff. :) More tomorrow.