But Miss Bauman, You Can't Leave!

I am officially done with my first semester of grad school, AMEN! Even though I only went part-time and will continue to go part-time next semester it has been a true test of motivation and desire for me.

Last night marked my last final and it was in my 4-hour educational psychology class, thankfully it only lasted an hour and everyone in the class got a 100% score so we decided to celebrate like true college students ... at the bar ... at 7:30 ... on a Wednesday (man I miss those days). We hit up Wellman's (which I had never been to) and partook in true college-style drinking games including Quarters & F The Dealer and a new one for me that was hysterical called Beer Goggles. It was a blast and our usual crew that hits up The Library grew in size as most of our class was in attendance, including some of the older ladies which was awesome! Soon midnight had approached and we realized we were down to our core group again (me, Christian, Kelsey, Kristin, Jenna & Mike) so we split, and headed home. I am so thankful for a month of freedom and look forward to spending my days off doing something other than homework for a bit!

I also finished up with my practicum class today, which almost broke my heart, mainly because the kids were sad that I was leaving and asked if I would ever come visit them. My kiddos at Hubbell taught me so much more than I taught them and they really will have a special place in my heart. It's because of them that I am sticking with teaching. I made sure to take plenty of pictures so here are a few. The project I guided used Matisse's painting Goldfish, the students were supposed to re-create his painting using his method of cut-paper collage, some of the results were pretty fab. I also gave the kids a self-reflection to complete, some of their answers made me laugh, especially the boy who circled NEVER when asked if he listened to directions and instruction. Well, at least he was honest?! I will say that I will miss hearing, "Miss Bauman, Miss Bauman, Miss Bauman, Miss Bauman, Miss Bauman, Miss Bauman, Miss Bauman, MISS BAUMAN!!!!!!! ... I have a question"

In case you think it isn't real, there's proof. Me...teaching....kids...listening?

More evidence that I am a killer educator. Look at the desire to learn in their eyes!
Please note the mini brass knuckle necklace too

The original art and inspiration for the project. "Goldfish" by Henri Matisse

One of the best projects in the class, looks like a future Matisse to me!

I just love this kid, always dancing and smiling, too cute!

Some of my kiddos, they love taking pictures :)

Almost everyone got in, a perfect reminder of my first classroom ... tear :'(

So there it is. Can't believe it went so fast. Now only one more semester of part time work, two semesters of full time classes and some student teaching to go. I will re-evaluate my love of teaching in the winter of 2011 :)