INTERNSHIP PRACTICUM REFLECTIVE JOURNAL WEEK 1
ERDISTON TEACHERS’ TRAINING COLLEGE
POSTGRADUATE DIPLOMA IN EDUCATIONAL
LEADERSHIP
DEL 108- ADMINISTRATORS’ CLINICAL
INTERNSHIP
REFLECTIONS WEEK 1
At the Princess Margaret Secondary
School, embracing new beginnings is a cornerstone of both staff and student
development. Conflict is a common part of our daily interactions, whether
between students, staff, or a combination of both. However, by fostering an
environment that supports new beginnings, we create space for growth,
forgiveness, and the invaluable process of learning from our mistakes.
At the start of this academic
year, I encouraged students to view this as a fresh opportunity to reset and
approach their school experience with renewed purpose. Mistakes from the past,
while part of our learning journey, do not have to define our future. Holding
onto past errors can prevent us from recognizing and seizing present and future
opportunities. Even from a spiritual perspective, we are reminded that the Lord
does not dwell on our past mistakes, Hebrews 8:12 but desires transformation, 2
Corinthians 5:17 (Amplified Holy Bible, 2015). Similarly, we, as teachers, do
not condone poor conduct but recognize the importance of allowing students a
chance for positive change.
A student burdened by past
mistakes or family associations should not feel permanently judged or confined
by them. When we allow ourselves to release these past events, it not only
supports our students’ growth but also clears the way for innovation and creativity,
much like restarting a computer to fully implement new upgrades. Preoccupation
with the past can impact our interactions, reducing openness and warmth and
potentially affecting our relationships.
I have noticed instances where
students are judged based on past issues involving their family members who
were former students. This can communicate an unfair message of inescapability
from past mistakes, which is neither psychologically healthy nor conducive to
growth. As 2024 began, Lagon remarked on the importance of embracing a new
beginning, describing it as "an invitation to introspect, reset, and
rekindle the fires of hope and aspiration." He further described it as “a
beacon of hope, a testament to the enduring human spirit that thrives on
resilience and optimism.”
Empathy is essential here. When we
reflect on our own student experiences, we gain a fresh perspective on how
meaningful a new start can be for young minds. Offering forgiveness can be
incredibly liberating, instilling hope that allows students to strive for their
best without the burden of past judgments.
As educators, we too should
welcome new beginnings, learning from our experiences to meet the high
standards of our roles. Mistakes and setbacks should be seen as opportunities
for growth and mentorship. Overcoming challenges puts us in a unique position
to guide others facing similar situations. Being consistently hard on
ourselves—or others—hinders this progress. By confronting difficulties,
addressing them, and moving forward, we foster a positive learning environment
that cultivates resilience, empathy, and optimism in both students and staff.
References
Amplified Holy
Bible (seventh). (2015). The Lockman Foundation.
Lagon,
H. M. (2024, January 1). Embracing new beginnings in 2024.
Dailyguardian.com. Retrieved October 31, 2024, from
https://dailyguardian.com.ph/embracing-new-beginnings-in-2024/
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