Jamie Goodwin
As I prepared for my first day of student teaching, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What would my cooperating teacher be like? Would the students test my classroom management skills? What would I teach? On top of these questions, I wasn’t sure what I should bring to my first day. In the end, I discovered that these 7 things were part of the top student teaching supplies for the first day.
A Book Bag
You need something to carry all of your things. My cooperating teacher provided me with a desk, but for the first little while, I was on my own. I purchased a one-shouldered book bag that could fit my laptop, binder, and everything else I needed. You could also bring a briefcase, backpack, or over-sized purse.
Planner
On the first day, I sat down with my cooperating teacher to determine what the schedule would be. We discussed when I would take over the class and what topics I would cover for the weeks that I was there. A planner was helpful to write everything down. It allowed me to start planning ahead.
Notebook and Pens
When you first show up for student teaching, you’re supposed to be there as an observer. So observe away! Use a notebook and pen to write down your observations. You can create a list of questions to ask your cooperating teacher, too. For example, maybe you’re wondering how he creates groups, why he did something, or what you should do if a student says or does something. You can review your questions during your lunch break or planning period.
Hand Sanitizer
Schools are notorious for the number of germs they harbor. Since you don’t want to miss a day of student teaching, you need to arm yourself with hand sanitizer. Keep a small bottle in your book bag to apply throughout the day.
Proper Clothing and Footwear
As a student teacher be sure to know what to wear. You spend a lot of time on your feet. Make sure that you have comfortable shoes on your feet. Ladies, ditch the high heels! If there’s a possibility that you’ll be on recess or bus duty, bring:
- a jacket
- gloves
- a scarf
- sunglasses, and
- an umbrella
Be prepared for any and all weather conditions.
Medications
In a classroom of students, you may experience a headache at some point. Plan accordingly by keeping ibuprofen or aspirin in your book bag. Keep it in a pocket where students won’t see it. You don’t want to risk them getting their hands on it.
Food
Pack a lunch or bring money to buy lunch. I would recommend bringing non-perishable lunch and snack items to keep at school. This could be microwaveable soups, crackers, granola bars, etc. Have plenty of snacks on hand to give you energy throughout the day.
After the first day, you may discover other top student teaching supplies that you need. However, these seven things are a good place to start to feel prepared when you show up to the first day of student teaching. Were there other items that you wished you had on the first day? Add your ideas in the comments below.
