First Grade Teachers

I LOVE first grade. They come in like kinder students barely reading and progress so much. The growth is amazing! If you like children's books and reading. First is the place for you. I would suggest that you read the book the daily 5. I wish I had it early in my career. There is a lot of reading groups so that book will help with the other kids. Also be prepared for buttoning pants and helping with shoes. We tell our first graders on the first day of school that the teachers only tie shoes until Christmas. After that, they have to find a friend. You are welcome to message me if you would like. I forgot to tell you... I would suggest you take an hour an sit in a kinder class so you won't be shocked at the beginning of the year. Also look at a kinder students writing right now so you'll know where they will be coming in.

I am a substitute for the last 10+ yrs and my favorite is 1st which is where I am the most at the same school very regularly on pre-assigned jobs. My next favorite is 3rd. I love 1-3 grades.

1st grade is more interaction, getting the basics, helping them enjoy learning, etc.

3rd grade is more focused on specific tasks needed for reading/ math learning cursive, being more creative with writing, etc

I love them all but I tend to stick toward the first grade... They are so sweet, little sponges, and so eager to learn and please.

I know it's a personal preference. Good luck!

It is a lot of guided reading. A lot of it! And a lot of testing for reading levels. At least that is how it is in Texas.

One of our 2nd grade teachers was a fifth grade teacher first, for maybe 4 or 5 years. She came to 2nd and LOVED it. Now she doesn't want to go back.
In the same school I had a good friend who taught first, they moved her to 3rd and she quit after two years, she hated it.

hmm i'd say first might have more tattling, and working out of social issues, you have a great opportunity to really lay down that foundation and work on them being kind to each other and solving their problems on their own.

I second the Daily FIVE great great great program/philosophy.

I taught first grade and third grade. I started out in first and taught first grade for 6 years. Then I moved to third where I taught for 6 years also. I LOVED third grade! I loved the curriculum, the kids were old enough to joke around with a bit, they were more independent. First grade is really hard in that you have to be VERY patient. There will be a lot of whining, tattling, crying. You have to prep everything ahead of time and keep lessons shorter, so there is more planning as well. They are NOT independent at all and need a lot of help. It is hard to get around to everyone so I NEVER even sat down for one second! Most of the focus is on Reading. I earned a M.Ed in Education with an emphasis in Reading and Literacy Development so more training would be beneficial. It is hard but the greatest thing about teaching first grade is how rewarding it is! When they come to you in the fall, they are little babies and can barely write. By the end of the year, they are writing full stories and grow soooo much! It is awesome to see! They also totally love their teacher and you get big hugs and love as bonus! Best of luck to you!! :)

I have had several teacher friends tell me that there is a ton of material to be covered in 3rd grade.. 1st grade is reading.. 2nd grade is first grade all over again.. and 3rd grade has tons of new material.