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The weights and balance of teaching




I always knew I wanted to teach.  In a preschool, an elementary school, a private elementary school, a private music studio, my own home, and then my own private music studio.  I've taught in all of these situations. 

As for any teacher (regardless of subject or age range of students) all of these different locations have their pros, cons and struggles.

The hardest part I believe, is balancing our dedication to our students (the reason that we do what we do) their parents/school administrators (who pay us to teach their child) and ourselves.  It's a fine line to do what is best for the student, while pleasing the parent or our bosses, and keeping our own lives balanced.

I personally get vested in each family.  Even if I do not teach their child myself.  I try to know every student at Keys & Strings, to greet their parent or family member.  To know a bit about their lives, culture and customs. 

I've adjusted lesson plans to include favorite subjects (our recent Toddler Up in the Sky Class has turned into a Super Hero Up in the Sky class) and our movie nights (Please Please can we watch Frozen AGAIN?)   I will plan a party theme at a drop of a hat (Princess, Fairy, Pirate, Barnyard!)

I've reminded staff members of no peanut days, I check and recheck food allergy lists we keep on food days, and I even stopped adding Hazelnut flavoring to my coffee.  Better to be safe than sorry.

My dedication is to the students.

I've helped students not only learn the techniques for their chosen instrument, but have helped choose writing assignment topics, helped with math problems and time management.  I have brought meals to families in need, hugged children as they cry, attend parents funerals and help pick prom gowns.  I have supplied input on how to ask a girl to the prom, as well as how to tell Mom/Dad they dented the car.   I have made donations to school plays, Trail of Terror decorations, church and preschool fundraisers.  All because of, and FOR our students.

Twice in the past month I have defended a child's recital/competition piece choice. One student was mine, another studied with my co-educator.   Even though I knew I risked displeasing their paying parents.  If the musician is not vested in their piece, doesn't feel moved or excited about it, they will not master it.  Oh they might learn the pitches, they might count it out properly.  But the emotion will not be behind the piece.  They will be playing just notes, not performing.

Again I say, my dedication is to the student. All students.  Even if they aren't mine.  And I hope that I have earned both the students and parents respect for making sure I am there for the student first.  Always.
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