May 14, 2025
By Shelby Perez
Editor
May is Teacher Appreciation Month, a time for students to thank the countless teachers who have helped them throughout their education.
Serving as a student teaching assistant in Mrs. Granieri’s Period 3 Algebra II class this year has reminded me of the important work teachers do. From encouraging students who are struggling to offering extra help at lunchtime and after school, a teacher’s job is challenging but necessary.
I am so glad I applied and was accepted last spring to be Mrs. Granieri’s student teaching assistant, as it has allowed me to hone my communication skills and use my outgoing nature to help other students.
My responsibilities include taking attendance and checking that all students have put their phones in the phone caddy. I also help students who are struggling with Do Nows and practice problems.
I think every student is talented and unique, so I always encourage them to tackle math problems with confidence.
Although I sometimes feel uncertain when students ask questions I can’t answer right away, I don’t let it discourage me. I simply review the material and come back stronger the next day.
Being a student teaching assistant has helped me refine and retain math skills from Algebra II, which I’ve built upon as I’ve advanced to precalculus and Calculus Honors. It has also prepared me for the complex courses I plan to take in college as an accounting major.
In addition to assisting students with the course material, I make personal connections with them by talking to them about their interests and events going on at school. Building social bonds with the students is crucial so they feel comfortable asking me for help.
I think every student is talented and unique, so I always encourage them to tackle math problems with confidence. My ultimate goal is for them to feel prepared to study more advanced math next year.
I thank Mrs. Granieri for her guidance, as I love working with her. She always creates a positive mood in the classroom and even shares a math joke here and there, which helps keep the students engaged.
I would also like to express my gratitude to Mr. Franklin, who has taught me so much about precalculus and calculus over the past two years. With his patience and support, his students learn the concepts and skills they need to tackle higher-level math problems.
I have been fortunate to have wonderful educators like Mrs. Granieri and Mr. Franklin, who provided me with knowledge and inspiration. I hope other students are able to appreciate their teachers as I do.
