PLENARY WITH PRINICIPALS AND STUDENTS

9/8/14

Dear Journal,
The past couple days of Plenary were interesting for me I had the opportunity along with my
colleagues to be edified by students from various schools in Trinidad on their views of school
and teacher. Also from the Principals of two high schools that is Vessigny and Miracle Ministries.
Questions were posed to these students about learning, teaching strategies, effective teaching
methods and various other questions. Based on some of the questions asked the answers were not
a surprise to me at all ,such as expectations of their teachers and what they expect in and from
their school. Their dislike for homework however, was quiet evident. Both principals seem to
have disciplinary and teaching strategies intact, for they are able to effectively and efficiently
manage their school with different management styles when situations arise. I was enlightened to
understand that it not only my school that face tough issues with students, however the method
used in handling each situation makes a difference.
There were some issues that stood out most to me when the students were asked certain
questions and their responses to those questions. An overwhelming number of students were
unhappy with teacher irregularity and tardiness to class, bringing personal issues into the
classroom and quarrelling with the students. They emphasized the lack of professionalism of the
teachers where that is concerned.
They were eager in discussing the topic of teaching strategies and their preference to learning.
Unanimously they stated that they preferred teaching methods that will bring the subject area to
life in the classroom requesting more interaction, role playing, group work that fosters
relationship building and most importantly that the teacher must possess comprehensive
knowledge in their subject area. To me they can tell when a teacher is not knowledgeable about
the subject area. Most of them preferred a mixture of learning through and in the subject.
Both Principals and students gave me the opportunity to view school and teachers through their
eyes; and what it means to administrate in a school. Students added that in the classroom, they
would like to see a better environment created for their learning, such as teacher motivation,
punctuality and the teacher being more respectful and understanding. Both principals also
expressed that they allow students to express their views.
To bring the plenary to a close, they were asked the question of what teachers should remember
where students and classroom is concerned, they reminded us all that they depend on us to
motivate them, that we as teachers ought to be kind, generous and understand and that students
learn differently. However one critical advice given is that all teachers should love what they do.
This was insightful and is allowing me to reflect on what I did wrong before and find ways to
correct it. I am now looking forward to becoming a better professional for my students.
Sincerely
Esther