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How Colleagues Can Help New Teachers

By Jane Ching Fung

They approached me as I walked through the hallway of my new school. Both of them had friendly smiles. They introduced themselves as veteran, primary teachers. I told them what grade and classroom I had been given and was hoping to hear words of wisdom and enlightenment. What I got was, "Oh, Room 19 is the worst room in the whole school. It's always so hot in there," and "Those kids have had sub after sub and Anthony is in there. I had him last year and you'd better watch him, he steals and lies!"

Although I am sure they meant well, to hear their brash opinions of my situation only made my insecurities and fear escalate. After all, it was my first week in the building and my third week as a teacher. I was looking for a hug and "Welcome to our school, you are going to make a difference in the lives of the children you teach!"

It may have been nearly 23 years ago, but I still remember that first encounter with my veteran colleagues. As the new school year begins again, I think of all the simple "gifts" we can give our new colleagues as they begin their journey into the classroom....