My Observation Of Ms. Pickle's Classroom

I had the privilege of spending an afternoon at Ensworth Academy and observe the lower school art classes this September. Ensworth is a private K-12 school in the Belle Meade area of Nashville, with campus split amongst two properties. Lower and Middle School reside on one plot of land, while the Upper School is closer to a main road. The afternoon I spent with one of the four art teachers, Ms. Pickle, allowed me insight into how to effectively manage a first grade class with minimal madness. Ms. Pickle’s classroom is one that every forthcoming teacher envisions will someday be theirs. Surrounded by floor to ceiling windows, ample storage space, new and ample supplies of materials it is a utopia. She has her students sit at tables of three to six, which allows for interaction between the students as they create. On the floor in front …show more content…
As I walked around the classroom asking questions learning about each student they were a shy and cautious group. Not wanting to become to loud because they didn’t want to upset Ms. Pickle and the expectations she had for a serene productive classroom. Students often had questions, instead of shouting like one may assume a younger child would do students quietly approached Ms. Pickle asked their question and returned to their seats peaceful. This situation again is ideal, it also is most likely a skill and approach to teaching Ms. Pickle has perfected during her thirty plus years of teaching at Ensworth. She commands respect, not through fear or intimidation; yet, through her calming presence that invites each of her students to fully engage in the art making process. Students will have off days, and while I wasn’t present on a day such as this I was fortunate enough to see how a successful and happy classroom can play out, no matter the age or a students interest level within a