u/Key_Chocolate9355

Hi everyone!

I’m headed to Lakehead this year for the Consecutive P/J program and I’m feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. I have a fair amount of experience working with kids and youth in instructional and community settings, but I know the "four walls" of a public school classroom are a totally different beast.

For those of you currently teaching K-3, I’d love some "boots on the ground" insight:

• What does the workload actually look like? I’ve heard the first few years are heavy on prep, how do you manage the work-life balance?
• Classroom Management: What are the biggest challenges you’re seeing with the younger grades post-COVID, and what strategies are actually working for you?
• The "Highs": In the middle of the stress, what are the moments that make early elementary worth it for you?

I’m really looking forward to starting my placements, but I want to go in with my eyes open. Any advice for a soon-to-be teacher candidate would be greatly appreciated!

Hey everyone!

I’m headed to the Orillia campus this year to start the Consecutive Bachelor of Education program. I’m really looking forward to getting started, but I’d love to meet some of my future classmates or chat with anyone currently in the program before things get busy!

A little about me: I have a background in teaching/instruction and a big interest in youth development and classroom leadership. When I’m not focused on school, I’m usually pretty active or looking for ways to get involved in the community.

If you’re also starting the B.Ed in Orillia (or if you’re a current student with some "survival tips" for the program/placements), drop a comment or send me a DM! It would be great to grab a coffee or even just have a group chat going for support once the semester hits.

Looking forward to meeting you all!