As I reflect on my 10-week practicum at St. Mary’s Elementary School in Grade 1, it’s hard to believe how far I’ve come. Walking through the doors on my first day, I had no idea what to expect. I was stepping into the unknown, in a setting I hadn’t been a part of before – a Catholic school. But what I quickly learned was that the unknown was an exciting space for growth, and that St. Mary’s was a place filled with warmth, compassion, and a supportive community that would help me become the educator I aspire to be. The first day of my practicum was filled with nerves and curiosity. As a student entering a Catholic school, I wasn’t sure how different the environment would be from the other schools I had experienced. Would I feel comfortable? Would I fit in with the staff and students? The answer, I soon discovered, was yes.

From the very beginning, I was welcomed with open arms by the teachers, staff, and students. The sense of community at St. Mary’s was palpable. Everyone—from the administration to the classroom aides—was genuinely invested in the success of the students and the growth of the teachers in the school. It didn’t take long for me to realize that the values of faith, respect, and service were not just part of the curriculum; they were woven into the very fabric of everyday life at St. Mary’s. One of the highlights of my practicum was the incredible people I had the privilege of working with. First and foremost, I want to acknowledge my mentor, the classroom teacher I had the chance to collaborate with throughout my time at St. Mary’s. Her experience, guidance, and support were invaluable. I was given the freedom to explore my own teaching style while also learning from a seasoned professional who was always there to lend advice and share insights. The other teachers and staff members at St. Mary’s were equally amazing. Everyone, from the principal to the custodial staff, had a role to play in creating a nurturing and enriching environment for the students. It was clear that the school was not just a place of learning but a true community—a family that looked out for one another.Throughout my 10 weeks, I was exposed to countless learning opportunities. Every day brought new experiences, whether I was delivering lessons, participating in class activities, or observing the different teaching styles around me. I was given the chance to lead lessons, design activities, and even step into a coaching role with the students. I was amazed by how much I could learn through hands-on experience. While the professional learning experiences were invaluable, the moments I shared with the students were truly the highlight of my practicum. There’s a unique connection that forms when you spend day in and day out with a group of young minds, and I was lucky to form bonds with many of the students during my time at St. Mary’s.

The kids at St. Mary’s were inquisitive, compassionate, and eager to learn. They made me feel like I was part of their school family. Whether it was helping them with a tricky math problem, participating in their prayer circles, or simply listening to their stories, I quickly came to appreciate the deep and meaningful connections that can be built in the classroom. It wasn’t just about teaching subjects—it was about nurturing relationships that would last long after my practicum ended. What surprised me most was how much I learned from the students themselves. Their curiosity, energy, and authenticity reminded me why I wanted to become a teacher in the first place. Watching them grow and develop, not just academically, but as individuals, was a rewarding experience that will stay with me throughout my career.

Here are just some of the pictures I took. This careers lesson was talking about the careers in our community and I wrapped it up talking about what they would like to be and on Halloween I got them to disguise a ghost my favorite was from a student with asd made theirs look like a chicken.

As I reflect on my 10-week practicum at St. Mary’s Elementary, I am filled with gratitude and excitement for the future. I entered the experience not knowing what to expect, but I leave with invaluable lessons, unforgettable connections, and a deeper understanding of what it means to be an educator. My time at St. Mary’s wasn’t just a professional experience—it was a personal journey that helped me grow, learn, and discover the true joy of teaching. I’ll forever be grateful for the support and opportunities I received during my practicum. The memories of the students, the lessons learned, and the connections formed will remain with me as I move forward in my teaching career. St. Mary’s Elementary truly showed me that the unknown can be a place of discovery, and that with the right community, anything is possible. As I continue on my path as an educator, I’ll carry with me the lessons from St. Mary’s and the knowledge that teaching is about so much more than just academics—it’s about building connections, fostering growth, and being part of a community that truly cares.