My story...

The most significant question that has led me to where I am is, “What do I want to do with my life?” To pick just one profession out of countless choices seemed like an impossible task at times. Although I’ve had doubts before, I am confident now that teaching is my answer. The next question I ask myself is, “What is more important, making money, or making a difference?” If there is one thing I’ve come to understand after working with children, it is how much of a difference one adult can make in the life of a child. While working in my preschool I had numerous parents express to me how much their child thinks of me, and I can think of no better reward than impacting lives in a positive manner. Furthermore, the incredible amount of self-fulfillment I have found in working with children can not be measured in monetary terms. Lastly, there is sadly a shortage of positive male role models for many children and if I can play a part in filling there void, that's just one more reason for me to be proud of teaching.

My first notable classroom experience was a field practicum at Lincoln Elementary in Corvallis with a certified teacher in a self-contained 4^th /5^th grade blended classroom. I started my time as an open-minded observer of the teacher in action. I watched how she implemented her lessons and managed the classroom. As the weeks went on, I formed relationships with the children, playing basketball during recess, reading aloud to the class, and tutoring various students in multiple subjects. This was a defining time of my life. The students called me “Mr. Crawford”, and respected me as a knowledgeable adult. I enjoyed the responsibility of being someone they looked up to.

In the last six months of my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to work with two different Head Start preschools. To be perfectly honest, my first preschool experience made me second guess my desire to become a teacher, but in the last 3 months I became more inspired than ever. I believe the true difference between the first and second half was my ability to be a part of the children's welfare. During my first three months, I primarily observed students and teachers. In contrast, during the last three months, I constructed the lesson plans and followed through with them. This contact with my students allowed me to relate with them in the role of teacher, and the experience gave me confidence in my ability to connect with students. It also gave me the confidence to apply to work at a preschool.

When I moved to Portland, I took a job with a childcare company called Joyful Noise. I was instantly impressed with their program and philosophies that support it. I started out as a “break person,” and within six months I was promoted to a co-lead teacher position. In the following 18 months, my job responsibilities included lesson planning and implementation, classroom organization and management, student progress documentation, and parent teacher conferences. My growth and success in this position has cemented my belief that teaching is the appropriate profession for me.

Raised in a family of teachers/coaches, I’ve always understood what it takes to be an educator. I know first-hand that the job isn’t easy, and it requires much more sacrifice than most people understand. I know there will be rough times ahead, and there isn't anything I'd rather be pursuing.

My goodness! I'm excited to get to work, as I'm sure all of us are. See you in the morning!