When did you start cadet teaching?

This year is my first year as a cadet teacher. I’m a senior and I’m a cadet teacher for kindergarten at Walnut Grove. I have cadet teaching second period, and it’s different because I’m here for the first period then leave for the second period. When I get there the kids are just getting there too. It’s nice to see them and how their day starts.

Why did you start doing cadet teaching?

I started cadet teaching to learn about what it’s like to be a teacher before I go to college. For my career path, I want to be a teacher, so I thought cadet teaching would help me know if I hated it or loved it. Ever since I was little, I [would] play school with my cousins and that definitely inspired me to be a teacher, but I also am a nanny now so that is definitely helping my love for kids grow. It’s making me want to be a kindergarten teacher instead of fourth or fifth grade. I lean more toward the younger kids.

What is something you like and dislike so far about being a cadet teacher?

I like that I already have a relationship with the students as well as the teachers. I also love when the kids come up and hug you. I really hate leaving the kids. It’s so much fun to be there and help them. It’s a little hard because you have to know your boundaries with them because you’re not a teacher yet, but you are there to help.

What does your teacher have you do with the students?

Mostly I walk around and observe, but sometimes if the teacher is helping and is one-on-one with a student, I’ll jump in and take over the class and help with each group to make sure they are doing their work and make sure they aren’t being crazy.