End of Semester Thoughts #3

by Lisa's Small Group

Lindsey, Margaret, Ginnie, Amber, Lisa, Karley, Caroline, & Steve

Lindsey Springstroh – Hope College

Student Taught at Curie Metro High School

I would encourage anyone who wishes to become the best teacher possible to student teach in Chicago through Chicago Semester. Living and student teaching in Chicago expands your worldview, and helps you understand life outside of Michigan. It is unlikely that many of us will land a teaching job in Michigan, so it only makes sense to practice your teaching in another state. You will meet many challenges while student teaching in Chicago (ie. truancy, language barriers, lack of funding), but as your cooperating teacher helps you overcome these, you'll feel prepared to tackle anything that comes your way in your future teaching career. I truly feel that I would not be nearly as prepared for my first year of student teaching if I had stayed at Hope. My cooperating teacher was wonderful, and helped me understand how to teach in an urban setting. Regardless of whether I teach in a big city in the future, student teaching in Chicago will look great on my resume (and on yours), because it shows that you are capable of adapting to diversity, which is key for educators.      

Margaret Snyder – Central College

Student Taught at Cooper Elementary

The thing I liked most about the Chicago Semester experience was that it gave me a sense of being grown up and out in the real world, but I was still walked with and guided. I was scared to be out on my own, so I wanted a mixture of independence but also support; Chicago Semester gave that to me. One thing I learned about myself the most was probably how independent I really could be. Class was no longer a three-minute walk, my meals weren’t made for me, and there definitely wasn’t a cleaning lady coming every Thursday leaving me a sweet note on my mirror. I thought I would hate the transition, but I found I genuinely enjoyed the whole process. I now take ownership of the meals I cook, bathrooms I clean and the trust in myself to get where I need to go. I have truly enjoyed every second of being here and I wouldn’t have traded it for anything in the world!  

Virginia Norrgard – Central College

Student Taught at Curie Metro High School

Chicago Semester was an excellent place to complete my student teaching. Having already gained experience in rural and small schools in Iowa, I wanted to be exposed to an urban classroom to better understand education through a different lens.  At my placement I was given the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of students and faculty in a large school setting.  One of the greatest challenges, yet most rewarding experiences I had, was teaching in the bilingual program. Here I was guided in providing instruction in Spanish to my students who are English language learners in the bilingual Spanish program. By having this experience in Chicago, I learned many things about myself. Perhaps the greatest of these is my ability to be adaptable to any situation. I learned how to communicate with all my students and also to change my lessons to fit their needs for each given day.  This experience may seem intimidating to you right now, but you need to know that your cooperating teacher and the Chicago Semester supervisors will provide you with all the support you need. I highly recommend this opportunity to any prospective teacher who is curious about urban education. This student teaching placement will equip you with knowledge and experiences that you cannot find in Iowa.    

Steve Cabassa – University of Mount Union

Student Taught at Kelly High School

If you are thinking about student teaching in Chicago with Chicago Semester, you should definitely do it!  I feel so much more prepared after going through the rigors of this program.  I learned so much valuable information and was really able to grow as a potential teacher.  The best part by far though was being in the big city!  For a small town guy like myself, it was a truly eye opening experience that I thoroughly enjoyed.  Also, having taught in Chicago looks so much more impressive on a resume than the typical small schools in Ohio.  So, if you are looking for an experience that you will always remember and set you apart from all the other job applicants, look no further than Chicago Semester!   

Karley Jones – University of Mount Union

Student Taught at Ray Elementary

There were many endless things that I enjoyed about my experience in Chicago. The city alone was simply amazing and had so many things to offer. I was never bored between the fun city life and planning for lessons the next day. Living in the city was a huge adjustment for me but it’s easy to quickly get the hang of things and I felt like I belonged here in no time. The school where I student taught exceeded my expectations I had prior to arriving in Chicago. The diversity within the walls of the school was a wonderful, different experience for me and I learned so much from my students. I have learned over the course of these 14 weeks that I am much more open-minded than I thought I was. In order to enjoy this experience I had to accept many differences and uncomfortable situations. Fortunately, I found myself falling in love with the city and what it offered me. My students helped ease my stress of being away from home because I was so busy planning lessons and preparing things for class the next day. Overall, the experience in Chicago was so much more than I had ever planned for myself. It wasn’t long enough, in my opinion. I truly enjoyed student teaching in such a large classroom setting, thanks to the amazing staff and my cooperating teacher who I have become friends with. I have met wonderful people during my 14 week internship and I wouldn’t change any of it for the world.        

Amber Moore – University of Mount Union

Student Taught at Ray Elementary

You may come from a small town or come from a medium sized city.  Either way, everyone has a comfort zone that they are fearful of stepping out of.  Coming to do my student teaching was the best decision I’ve ever made during my time in college.  I have heard so many classmates complain and confide to me how they wish that they would have done it; I didn’t want to be one of those people.  One of the things that I enjoyed the most about Chicago Semester was my placement for my student teaching.  Although I was gaining lots of knowledge at my school and through my various placements, I would have never had the experience as diverse as this one if I stayed in Ohio.  Doing my student teaching through Chicago Semester gave me so many opportunities professionally and personally.  There will be stressful times along with good times, but you take those in stride throughout your entire time here and remind yourself that it will all be worth in the end.  Don’t be afraid to leave your comfort zone, and don’t let anyone deter you from this experience.  If you can do it, then do it, or find a way to do it.

Caroline Bartko – Central College

Student Taught at Cooper Elementary

Chicago gave me a great experience teaching a diverse group of learners. I really enjoyed trying to get to know each student and learning about things that motivate them. This helps me to understand what I need to do as a teacher to keep them interested in my class. Most importantly, teaching at Cooper helped me to understand how to teach ELL students and how to modify my lessons to fit their needs. This will help me in my future because I want to work with ELL students and a diverse group of learners. I think that this placement helped me to prepare to continue pursuing my goals.

End of Semester Thoughts #2

by Carole's Small Group



Hannah, Bailey, Samantha, Rachel, Carole & Rebekah

Kelly Robbins – Hope College

Student Taught at Coonley Elementary

Taking part in Chicago Semester was the best choice for me.  Moving to Chicago allowed me to grow in many ways that I believe were only possible by leaving my college bubble.  I have seen growth personally, professionally and, socially.  Coming to the city I was a college student unsure if I could make it in such a populated area.  Chicago is not the small town of Holland I was used to.   Living in a city gave me the chance to be part of the bigger picture.  Living and socializing with new students gave me a chance to find who I am outside of college.  There is no doubt my student teaching placement helped me grow in ways that would not have been possible teaching in the small towns of western Michigan.  I was challenged with a multi-grade class of nearly 40 students.  I quickly learned that many of the students would test me and push me.  However, in the end I have come out a stronger person.  Between taking on the “city life” and balancing it with the challenges brought on by my placement, I am confident I will succeed after college.  Chicago Semester provided me with the appropriate support to smoothly transition out of college.  I am confident that God placed here to strengthen me and prove that I can thrive in whatever is to come.

Hannah Anderson Totten – Central College

Student Taught at Mitchell Elementary

Throughout the Chicago Semester Program, I enjoyed working directly with my student teaching supervisor for support and ideas to implement in the classroom.  It was also great to meet with students from multiple states all studying education.  Our diverse educational backgrounds allowed us to collaborate with one another.  While in Chicago I discovered that my skills can easily be adapted for any classroom situation.  I loved working with my students, even though I had no similar experiences while studying at Central College.  I learned so much and was able to grow under the supervision of great cooperating teachers and powerful Chicago Semester supervisors.         

Rebekah Marras – Calvin College

Student Taught at Solomon Elementary

In the Chicago Semester experience, I really enjoyed getting to know people from different schools and seeing all of the blessings and challenges that face urban education. By students teaching in Chicago, I learned, in a new way that I love to love students! This semester, I was given the challenge of working with some particularly difficult students. However, in this experience, I learned that I love to find ways to show even the toughest of students the love of Christ!     

Samantha Green – Carroll University

Student Taught at Clinton Elementary

If anything, student teaching at Chicago Semester will open your eyes more than any other experience has. This is definitely what I enjoyed most about my experience; specifically in regards to learning more about myself. Faced with a completely different culture and atmosphere than I was used to, I quickly learned about myself in a way I never thought possible. I realized what things in life were most important to me and what things bring me joy and peace. I cannot say I'm a fan of city living, but I've seen the vibrancy of the Chicago residents and visitors. It truly is a place for the diverse to come together as one. Student teaching at Chicago Semester has caused me to reflect upon my own life and the education and opportunities I had in comparison to those available here. And personally, student teaching in Chicago has made me appreciate my home state of Wisconsin that much more.  

Bailey Schrock – Calvin College

Student Taught at Solomon Elementary

This was a unique opportunity to see what urban education is like. Through this semester program I was placed in classes of 30+ students and discovered that I can handle them. There are many challenges but by overcoming them I became stronger. Because this semester was such a challenge, I feel accomplished by completing it. I am a stronger teacher and know that I can reach all students in these large classes. By working in CPS I feel like I could work in any school.         

Rachel Miller – University of Mount Union

Student Taught at Bridge Elementary

This semester really inspired me as a teacher. I know that because of this experience I have truly realized my vocation to be an educator. I never considered teaching as work. It was the best part of living in Chicago. On the weekends, I missed being at school. I also realized that I have a strong passion for working with students that are disadvantaged compared to students in high-income communities. I loved working with students from an urban setting and I know that is something that I want to continue to do in my future.

End of Semester Thoughts #1

by Cynthia's Small Group


Cynthia, Bree, Haley, Sherry, Wendy, Chelsea & Alisha



Bree Breuker – Calvin College

Student Taught at Jamieson Elementary

First off, let me just say how much I’ve loved student teaching in Chicago – the city is great, the kids are amazing, and I’ve learned so much about myself as a teacher.  I have always wanted to experience the big city, but I wasn’t really exactly sure how much I would enjoy it or whether or not it was for me in as long-term type of thing.  So doing my student teaching in Chicago seemed to be the perfect fit; it was something that could give me an idea of what the city was like while still only being a semester commitment.  I have fallen in love with this city though.  I love getting on public transportation or walking around and seeing so many different types of people; I love getting to school and seeing so many different colors of kids and knowing that they each have such unique stories, completely different from their neighbor.  My kids, while they can be tough at times and a bit scary at the beginning, are just kids who are misunderstood and want some attention.  

I became a teacher to help kids, and for me, being here in Chicago in the school that I’m at has been one of the most rewarding experiences so far because I can see how much I’ve helped these students.  They make me laugh, they make me almost cry because I’m laughing so hard, and they’ve shown me how much kids just like them everywhere need a teacher that cares.   I would recommend Chicago Semester to anyone that is interested or even thinks they are interested; come and experience the city, make a lot of new friends, become a better teacher, and enjoy every minute of it!

Alisha Compagner – Hope College

Student Taught at Boone Elementary

The Chicago Semester program is a program that desires to add to the experiences of individuals who are at the conclusion of their college career.  The best thing about Chicago Semester is the wide variety of individuals who participate.  It is an opportunity to meet many new people, from a variety of colleges, who have joined together to experience the urban life of Chicago.  Not only is it a program that gets you out into the field, but it is a program that is spiritually driven to connect your experiences with Christ.  I have learned how to collaborate with people from all around the world through my student teaching experience, and I have learned the importance of diversity and connecting with people of many different cultures.  This program opens your eyes to new styles of living, people you may never have been able to come in contact with, and the diversity that surrounds you each and every day. 

The student teaching experience is especially beneficial.  I was able to differentiate for students from many different countries, who spoke more than 40 different languages.  I learned how to collaborate with teachers, who also were from different cultural backgrounds, to develop lessons and curriculum that would meet each child’s physical and emotional needs.  The experience in Chicago was beneficial, and will whole life long memories. 
    

Chelsea Schuen – Trinity Christian College

Student Taught at Jamieson Elementary

What I enjoyed most about the Chicago Semester experience was getting to know new people from the different schools. I built friendships that I know will continue beyond the end of this semester. From my experience as a student teacher in the Chicago Public Schools, I have learned just how much emotion I invest into my job as an educator. I loved getting to know each one of my students and hearing their stories, as heartbreaking as some of them were. I found myself wanting to pack my kids up and take them with me after I finished the semester; I could not imagine waking up and not seeing their smiling energetic beings in the morning. This time I spent in Chicago Public Schools was the most rewarding experience that I have ever engaged in. I am so grateful that I chose to take part in the Chicago Semester program. 

Sherry Runia – Northwestern College

Student Taught at Boone Elementary

I am shocked that my time here in Chicago is almost done! I have truly enjoyed student teaching in Chicago - it has been a great learning experience!One thing that I have enjoyed most while student teaching in Chicago is getting to know the students in my classes. They are wonderful and I will never forget them. Currently, I am student teaching in 2nd grade and 2nd graders are so honest- they tell you everything! After student teaching in Chicago, I can see that I have been challenged in many ways, including learning how to have patience when my patience is running thin, along with learning how to go around, through, over, or under obstacles. God has challenged me in this way and encouraged me to be a better teacher by pushing me to work through my weaknesses. Chicago semester has been a great experience and is something that I will never forget!

Haley Brillhart – Central College

Student Taught at Peterson Elementary

I so very much enjoyed the students during my experience.  I could not begin to describe how much I have grown to love them for all of their differences.  I was able to teach in a very diverse classroom.  This meant I had a lot of challenges, but so many more rewards.  I got to see so much growth out of the children in all academic areas and even some in behavior.  I learned that I can be pushed past my limits.  I can be put outside of my comfort zone and thrive.  My experience at Chicago Semester was so enriched and helped me grow both professionally and personally.  I will forever be grateful to them for allowing me this experience to really see how far I could go and how much I could grow.   

Wendy Matamoros Gomez – Dordt College

Student Taught at Jamieson Elementary

Through Chicago Semester, I was challenged professionally, spiritually, and even physically (I know it wasn't as cold, but it was a lot of walking). I do not regret doing the Chicago semester because of that. I loved being exposed to the beauty that exists in the diversity of a city setting. I learned that I love learning about different cultures more than I thought, and how important it is to value each person. My classroom was very diverse, and I loved getting to know each of my students as individuals and the unique jewel they are to God.

Student Teaching - Weeks 13 & 14

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

LEAVING THE CITY

Well it has finally come, my last full week and weekend in Chicago. However, I must say that it was one of the best. My mom came Friday afternoon and picked me up from my school. This was her first time ever in Chicago so I got the pleasure of giving her a weekend packed full of the best Chicago experiences. It was a great way to end my time in this city because I really got to experience the city life for one last hoorah. We went out to eat so many times… I have never eaten so well. I took her for some real Mexican and Polish cuisine and we also went to a new Mediterranean restaurant in Lincoln Park and we finished off the eating tour with brunch at Elly’s Pancake House. In addition to all of the good eats, we also took several long walking tours of the city and we went to the Chicago History Museum. Going to the museum was awesome, and I learned a lot about the city. I think going there was even better after living here for a semester. However, the weekend was also spent packing up my apartment. It has really sunk in that I only have a few days left. I am ready to go home, but I am really going to miss living in Chicago.

STUDENT TEACHING

Looking back on the semester, I have to say that I enjoyed the actual teaching experience the most. This is the first teaching placement that I have had that I really felt like I had some ownership. I really connected with a lot of my students and the school faculty. I have had the honor and privilege of working with so many amazing and caring individuals. My cooperating teacher has become one of my best friends in the city, and she is a truly inspiring mentor. Aside from the commute, I am really going to miss going to Bridge Elementary every day. Living in this city for the past four months has taught me a lot about myself. I never knew that I could be so independent. My confidence level has increased exponentially. I really feel like an adult.  I am ready to get out in the real world and have my own classroom. I feel ready and very confident. I know that I can handle pretty much anything that comes my way, and that makes me very proud of how much I have grown as a person and excited to tackle new challenges. This experience has been more than I could have ever dreamed of. I am going to miss everything about living and working in this amazing city, but I know that it is time for me to move on to a new chapter of my life. I learned how to be a city girl and now I have to learn how to be a Southerner…. Atlanta, here I come!

Student Teaching - Week 12

By Rachel Miller – Bridge Elementary

STUDENT TEACHING

Talk about a busy week. You can definitely tell that the semester is winding down because there were a lot of things that I had to do this week. The biggest was finishing my professional portfolio. Luckily, I had been planning and uploading artifacts for it throughout the semester so I was at a good spot. This week was dedicated to writing all my rationales, adding extras, and making sure it was exactly how I wanted it. Honestly, I am very proud of it, and looking at all of my work that I have accomplished this semester still surprises me. You don’t really realize how much you have done until it is all compiled in one place. All of my fellow student teachers should be very proud of themselves and everything that we have accomplished this semester.

The school week was pretty normal. The only unique day was Wednesday because we had report card pick-up and parent teacher conferences. This day was awesome because I didn’t have to be at school until 11:30am. This meant that I got to have an extremely productive morning. I slept in about a half hour, went to the gym, ate a big breakfast, drank coffee while I caught up on the news, did my hair, I even had time to do my make-up and paint my toe nails and there was still time to do a bit of work on my portfolio.  I actually went to school looking like a person who is calm and put-together. Most days I feel like a chicken with my head cut-off, running around trying to get everything ready for the day. This was a welcome change.

LIVING IN THE CITY



Lincoln Park Zoo

 Sadly, all of our art events are now over so I didn’t have anything super cool to look forward to midweek, but it was probably for the best with all the work I had to do. I did make my weekend count though. I had two great runs outside. Today I did a long run and took the opportunity to do some exploring in Lincoln Park. I even ran in the zoo for a little bit. I don’t think the zoo was technically open since it was 7:00am and I don’t know if you are really allowed to run in there, but the gate was open and there wasn’t anyone there to stop me so….

Yesterday, we had another girls’ night out at a new Tapas place in the Wrigleyville area. I liked this place a lot better than the last place we went. This restaurant was very small and had a nice cozy vibe. We all ordered our own tapas and shared the vegetable paella. Ginnie and I split some mango sangria, as well, which was delicious. It was definitely a great way to finish off a crazy and hectic week. Next weekend my mom is driving out here to move out my stuff. I can’t believe how fast this semester has gone. Only one full week left. Yikes!

Student Teaching - Weeks 10 & 11

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

Well, I am back from an incredibly relaxing spring break at home. It was nice to get out of the concrete jungle for awhile and experience the color green in vast quantities. I think I may have relaxed a little too much though because this week of school has left me exhausted.

STUDENT TEACHING

Nature Show

However, it was a pretty interesting week. On Tuesday my cooperating teacher arranged for the 5^th and 6^th grade classes to have an educational music program put on by a group of her friends’ rock band, Nature Show. The kids absolutely LOVED it, and the band was really great with them. They talked about what it takes to be part of a musical group and how they have to work together to write and learn songs. They even had audience volunteers come down and try out their instruments. I think the students were very inspired by them, especially, since most of the band members taught themselves how to play their instruments. They also surprised the kids at the end by covering Katy Perry’s hit song “Firework”.

We also had another professional development day on Friday. This day was mostly spent on finishing up grades for the third quarter. I took full responsibility for this quarter’s grades, and it was not an easy job, but I did it and all grades for 1100 students were entered into the computer on time. I just cannot believe how close I am to being finished with my placement… less than two weeks. 

LIVING IN THE CITY

icream

Vegan ice cream!

This weekend has been pretty productive and I have been doing a lot of work in order to be on top of things these next few weeks, but I did manage to make time for some fun. On Friday, Ginnie and I attempted to go to the Global Dance Party at the Old Town School of Folk Music, but tickets were sold out. As an option B, we took a bus to Wicker Park and got ice cream at this really cool place called icream. Apparently it has been featured on the food network, and it is a pretty popular spot. What makes this ice cream place unique is that you pick your flavors and mix-ins and they make your ice cream from scratch using liquid nitrogen. You can even watch them do it.  It was super cool and the ice cream tasted great, too. I was even able to make my sweet treat vegan because they have soymilk as an option.  My only complaint was that it was a tad on the expensive side, but for the experience it was worth it.

Homeless in Chicago

Finally, on Sunday I participated in a service activity with a few other Chicago Semester student teachers. We teamed up with a group of students from Trinity Christian College to distribute sack lunches to the homeless downtown. It was an interesting experience. At first I felt a little uncomfortable approaching people, but by the end of the afternoon it got easier. 

 It felt good to give in some way, especially, since I see so many people in rough situations here everyday. I am very thankful for all of the great people and opportunities that I have been given in my life, and doing service always reminds me to not take what I have for granted. 

 

 

Student Teaching - Week 9

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

STUDENT TEACHING

Ballet Hispanico

What a busy week! This was my first week of full time student teaching and it was also the first time this semester that I had some kind of commitment or activity to attend after school.  On Monday, scenery crew for the play started. Tuesday was seminar day. Wednesday was the Chicago Semester hunger banquet. Thursday I had my weekly art event. This week was Ballet Hispanico at Columbia College. Then, finally, Friday I went to Curie Metro High School with Ginnie and Amber to see students perform the musical, Little Shop of Horrors.

LIVING IN THE CITY

Little Shop of Horrors Cast

But of all of my busy things this week, my favorite was definitely going to Ginnie’s school for the musical. First, it was a very neat experience to see a school that is not my own. It was even better that it was my roommate’s because we talk about school all of the time. I can finally imagine it now when she tells me stories about her day. I found it amazing how contrasting the atmospheres are at both of our schools and their surrounding neighborhoods. I am beginning to realize that this is one of the most amazing things about the city. The neighborhoods are so vastly different and unique, that it is hard to believe that they are on the same planet, let alone in the same metropolitan area. Second, the play was incredible. I had no idea what to expect since it was a high school performance, but I was shocked.  I mean the props, costumes, lighting, and acting were nothing to get too excited about, but the music was absolutely phenomenal! When they first started singing I didn’t believe that it was real. They were that good. After the show, Ginnie told me that Curie has one of the best music programs in Chicago, and (here is a fun fact) one of the musicians in The Black-eyed Peas went to Curie High School. I believe it, because, my goodness, those students are seriously talented.

Shamrock Shuffle 8K

This was an especially special and fun weekend (well Sunday) for me because it was the long awaited Shamrock Shuffle. I met up with my teacher, another teacher from Bridge, and another teacher elsewhere in the city to take on the streets of Chicago in my first road race in over two years! It was also the largest race I have ever run in, and it is also the largest 8k race in the country… 40,000 people. There were two separate start times to accommodate everyone. I was supposed to take off in the first group, but I wanted to run with my teacher so I went in the second. Just to give you an idea of how many people were running, we were the second group, right, meaning half of the participants were already running before we even went to the start. Then from the time my wave actually started to the time I actually crossed the start line was about 20 minutes. We weren’t even at the back of the pack either. We were solidly in the middle. It was kind of insane. The numbers also made for an interesting run. I was bumping people all the time and it was so hard trying to pass, but it was okay because it was so much fun! I only ran with my teacher for the first two miles because she needed to walk, so then I was on my own for the last three. I cannot get over how fast the race went by. I felt like I had run less than a 5k when I reached the finish (I guess that is a good sign). I feel like I got the running/road race bug back. I cannot wait to run my marathon in less than 51 weeks!!! Oh yeah, that was another crazy thing I did this week. Coming March 17th, 2013 I will be running 26.2 miles on the streets of Atlanta, GA… wish me luck!

Student Teaching - Week 8

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

STUDENT TEACHING


Chicago River - St. Patrick's Day



This week at school was a lesson in patience and flexibility. Since there was still some testing going on at the junior high, for several classes we had to revert to the old “art on a cart” method. However, we did not have a cart so we carried all of the supplies from classroom to classroom. I don’t think that elaboration is needed on how incredibly inconvenient this was, especially since many of the classes were working on different projects. Things were not a whole lot better once we could use the art classroom either. We just got a smart board (which is AWESOME!), but nothing is hooked up, and we are not sure when it will be because our end of the building does not have Internet access. So right now, we have a bunch of great technology that is completely unusable. Also, with the addition of the smart board, we also do not have use of the document camera that I am accustomed to using and the students are accustomed to learning from. Finally, we also have had several storage tables removed from the classroom, and as a result, all of the art materials are sitting on the floor. The situation is far from ideal.

However, I have managed to make the best of it, by finding other ways to teach my students. I have been making use of the white board for demonstrations and have been working one-on-one with more students. I am discovering that the best teachers are ones that can be flexible and make the most of a bad situation. I definitely got a taste of that this week and it is a lot easier said than done.

LIVING IN THE CITY

Pizzeria Uno

This weekend was a pretty crazy weekend in Chicago, with the unusually nice weather coupled with all of the St. Patrick’s Day festivities. I had some friends from home visit, and I was incredibly thankful for the beyond gorgeous weather. On Friday, I had deep-dish pizza at Pizzeria Uno’s. I have now tried three different deep-dish places and I think Uno’s is the best so far.

On Saturday, I got to see the river dyed neon green, which was pretty neat. I didn’t know that they dyed it that bright. It was also amazing to see how many people were there. It was nuts; we barely found a spot to watch.

The Chicago Diner

After the river dying, we didn’t hang around to catch the parade. Instead we headed up north to get lunch at a place called the Chicago Diner. Do not let the name fool you because this is actually a completely vegetarian/vegan establishment, and I mean completely. There is not an item on the menu that cannot be made vegan and there is absolutely NO MEAT. For me, being a vegetarian for the past 7 years of my life, this was a dream come true. I have never been to a place where I could order anything on the menu. In the spirit of the holiday, I ordered a Ruben with setian “corned beef.” It was incredible. It actually tasted like corned beef. I do not understand how they did it. I also couldn’t help myself and ordered a vegan cookie dough peanut butter shake. It was to die for. If I had a million dollars I would probably eat at the Chicago Diner for every meal, every day of my life. I am trying not to think about when I leave the city and have to back to limited dining options. It will indeed be a sad day.

Student Teaching - Week 7

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

STUDENT TEACHING



Working with clay

 This week was the dreaded ISAT testing week at all of the elementary schools in Chicago. As a result, for me, this week was pretty relaxed because I did not have any art classes. Instead my cooperating teacher was assigned a group of students to proctor the test for. These students were part of a class that was composed of a majority of either bilingual or special education students. Since their classmates had special accommodations, they had to take their test separately from their peers. We got the students that were neither bilingual nor special education. We also had to keep the students entertained for the remainder of the day once the test was completed. We did a variety of different games and activities, but the best was playing with clay. One of the Pre-K teachers gave us a box of self-drying clay to use with the students. This was the first time that any of these kids have used clay in the art room since Bridge does not have a ceramics program. It was fun to watch everyone try to make pinch pots, coil pots and pinch animals, and to see their reactions to how the clay felt. It was a lot of fun.

Now it is back to the routine. This week I start taking over the fifth and sixth grade classes at the junior high. I am really excited to start working with the older students. They are a fun group to work with because you can joke around with them more than the younger kids. However, I am also a little nervous because I think they are a much more challenging group in terms of classroom management. Hopefully, all goes well.

LIVING IN THE CITY



Enjoying Kasia's Polish Deli



Outside of teaching this week, I have done several cool things in the city. Last Monday, my roommate and I made a trip to a Polish deli, Kasia’s, in honor of Casmir Pulaski’s birthday. That place might be my favorite place in Chicago so far. The food was excellent and it was super cheap. When I left, I felt like I had robbed the place. It was so awesome.



Chicago Symphony



I also had the opportunity to listen to the Chicago Symphony, as it was the art event this week. It was very impressive. I used to play the violin when I was in high school so seeing the orchestra touched a special place in my heart. It really made me miss playing. If I ever get a spare moment in my life, I think I would like to pick it up again.

On Friday I tried a brand new dining experience. My roommate and I went out with another student teacher friend, Amber, to a Tapas bar. Ginnie has been telling me all about tapas, since she studied abroad in Spain, and we were very excited when we found a place within walking distance to our apartment. Basically, tapas are Spanish appetizers. There are all sorts of kinds, both hot and cold. The custom is to order a bunch of tapas for the table and then everyone shares. So that was what we did, and it was delicious. I haven’t eaten that much food in awhile. We also shared a pitcher of sangria to add to the festive spirit. It was an excellent way to end the school week.



Seek Vintage - Thrift Shop



Finally, I have taken it upon myself to fully enjoy this beautiful weather that we have been having lately. I have been making full use of the lakeshore trail, going on several long runs this weekend. I have also been doing a lot of exploring on foot. Yesterday, I went to a really interesting shop, called Seek Vintage. I had coupon, so I was excited to finally check it out. Needless to say, I was not disappointed, and should probably start keeping a better tally on my budget. But, I have found that one of the greatest parts of the city is finding new places and I am only going to be here a few months so I should make the most of. Well, that is my justification anyway.

Student Teaching - Week 6

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

STUDENT TEACHING

Mural Club

I was kept on my toes this school week, especially on Friday. My teacher was not there so I was with a substitute. However, ten minutes before my first class, my sub was moved to a different room and I was told that I would be given a different sub that the school felt should not be managing a classroom. As you can imagine, those were the exact wards I wanted to hear before attempting to teach my first class ever without my cooperating teacher present, not really. It was immediately evident why this sub was not wanted in a classroom by herself. She was not a very nice woman. Even though the day started off on edge, it did get much better. The students were wonderful and it was awesome being completely in charge of the classroom. I felt like I could really open up and let my true teaching style shine through. It was funny though because a lot of my students told me that I sounded like my cooperating teacher with my mannerisms and even the sound of my voice. I guess she must be rubbing off on me. But, I really thought that was an amazing compliment because I think my cooperating teacher is exceptional, and to have anyone think that I am even a tiny bit similar to her really makes me feel great about how I am doing.

Another great moment was mural club this week. We ordered sweatshirts a few weeks ago and they finally came in. We spent the whole meeting Wednesday adding our own personal touch to the sweatshirts by splatter-painting them with a variety of blues and whites for Bridge. They really turned out nice, and the kids absolutely loved it. I even got my own sweatshirt so I will be able to take a piece of Bridge home with me in May.

LIVING IN THE CITY

Outside of school this week, we went to the Shakespeare Theater to see “Midsummer Night’s Dream.” This was the first time that I have ever seen a Shakespeare play performed (besides the movies), and I was very impressed. It is incredible how much more interesting Shakespeare is when you are not reading it out of a British Literature textbook. The play was hysterical; I laughed my butt off. Other than that, this weekend has been pretty low key. I tried bubble tea for the first time and now I am hooked. Tomorrow, in honor of Casimir Pulaski Day, I am going to scout out an authentic Polish restaurant to get lunch at. I think some homemade perogies are just what I need to complete this long weekend. 

CasImir Pulaski - Revolutionary War Hero

Student Teaching - Week 5

by Rachel Miller - Bridge Elementary

STUDENT TEACHING

It was a good thing that we had Monday off for President’s Day because I spent the entire day pumping my body with fluids, laying in bed and eating soup. I was a sick as a dog. Luckily, that was my low point, by Tuesday I was in a well enough state to get up and go to school, and now I am almost back to being 100%. My illness was an eye opening experience though. I had to learn to persevere and work extra hard to maintain my usual level of energy and enthusiasm. Just because you feel under the weather does not mean that the students should receive any lesser of a classroom experience. Some times it is really hard to be a teacher, but I just keep reminding myself that the student’s experience and learning is first priority, even if you feel like you just got run over by the bus.

Playing Card Portrait

This week was exciting in terms of student work. My 1^st and 2^nd grade classes are almost done with their warm and cool color landform projects, and they are looking beautiful. I can’t wait until they are completed this week so I can start displaying them. Also the 3^rd and 4^th graders started drawing their king and queen playing card portraits.  This project is remarkable. I am so impressed with all of the detail the students are using. Looking at their work in progress makes my day because some of the portraits are absolutely hysterical. Just the facial features and the style that we are doing them in are to die for. I am so excited to continue working on them this week!

LIVING IN THE CITY



Hunger - Lifeline Theatre

 I also had another weekend jam-packed with Chicago fun. On Friday, Ginnie and I hit up the local art scene by stopping by a few gallery openings in River North. This was a really fun and cheap way to spend a Friday night since the openings are free to the public, and many also serve complimentary refreshments. Then on Saturday, everyone in the Chicago Semester took a trip north to the Lifeline Theater in Rogers Park to watch a production entitled Hunger. The main theme of this semester is focused on hunger and homelessness, and this event was geared directly toward that theme. The show was interesting. The story revolved around a group of scientists working in a seed bank during World War II in Leningrad, Russia. It focused on the hardships the scientists faced as food rations became almost nonexistent. I don’t want to give too much away, but it really was a compelling piece. I certainly left the theatre feeling cold and hungry.  Sunday was also nothing short of busy. 

National Museum of Mexican Fine Art

After yoga and lunch in Lincoln Square, Ginnie and I made a trip to the Pilsen Neighborhood of Chicago to check out the National Museum of Mexican Art. Let me start by saying, if you are ever in the Chicago area put this on your list of must-see places to visit. The museum is home to an impressive permanent collection, and when we were there they also were hosting three additional exhibits. Viewing the work was an excellent insight into Mexican history and art influences in Mexico, the United States and Chicago. I am so glad that I took the time to check it out. In addition, admission is free so there really is no excuse to not give it a go.