Awesome day

Today I had my first placement day at Thornlea Secondary School and it was a SMASHING SUCCESS! This semester is going to be full of surprises because not only am I teaching English, but Geography and Civics too! I'll be prepared for anything they throw in front of me by the time this year is over.
The day started out with a short staff meeting after I followed my tiny, crazy host teacher around the main floor of the school photocopying, filling a kettle with water, and generally chatting. There was food at the staff meeting (YAY!) and a few speeches, plus I was formally introduced to the rest of the staff, which was really cool.
First period was Ms. Mirrlees' FYNE class, which basically means 12 grade 9 students who are taking English and Geography full year. Their elementary school teachers thought they would benefit from a slower transition into a semestered program, so I teach these kids all year. It makes for a stronger bond and a more accurate reading of skill improvement, so I'm not complaining.
Second and fifth period were both grade 10 Civics classes, which are definitely NOT English oriented. Those should be very interesting to teach. Both classes have some interesting kids in them, though, so hopefully I'll have a good time.
Anyway, even though I was only observing today I felt like I could get up and teach a class if so needed, which is a good start indeed. And the staff at Thornlea are first rate, which I'm really going to enjoy.
That's all until Thursday when I do my second day. Tomorrow I'm on campus all day buying used textbooks, going to a one-hour lecture, and chilling with friends.

-Laur