Mackenzie Ellefson

As I wrap up my time at this high school placement, it’s hard to believe how much I’ve grown since I first stepped into the art classroom. When I began, I felt a mix of excitement and nerves, eager to connect with students and share my passion but uncertain about the best ways to bring out their creativity and confidence. Now, after weeks of planning, teaching, and learning from my students and colleagues, I can genuinely say I’ve come into my own as a teacher.

One of the biggest changes I’ve noticed in myself is my confidence in the classroom. At the start, I was so focused on following my lesson plans to the letter, afraid of deviating too much in case I lost control of the room or didn’t cover everything. But as the weeks passed, I learned to trust my instincts and adapt to my students’ needs on the fly. I became comfortable with the ebb and flow of each class, recognizing when to let them experiment freely and when to step in with guidance. This flexibility allowed me to connect with my students on a deeper level and encourage their individual artistic voices. I’m so grateful for this shift because it’s made teaching feel more like a collaboration than a one-way street.

Another highlight has been the incredible support and warmth from the staff. The teachers here have been so welcoming, always willing to offer advice, share resources, or just listen when I needed to talk through a lesson. Their kindness has not only made my transition smoother but has also shown me the power of a supportive teaching community. It’s reassuring to know that there are people who genuinely want to see me succeed and have taken the time to help me grow. I was lucky enough to work with a co-operating teacher that gave me the space to experiment with my teaching style and be very supportive and thorough in his feedback and suggestions. I also was right next door to another outstanding art teacher, who was always ready to give me a boost when I needed it. Their advice, stories, and comraderie has made this experience that much more impactful to me.

And, of course, I’ve made so many fun memories with the students! From their creative ideas to the unexpected classroom jokes, these moments have brought so much joy to my experience. Watching students discover new techniques or see them light up when their artwork turns out better than they expected has been beyond rewarding. The laughter and energy in our classroom are something I’ll carry with me as I move forward in my teaching career.

Leaving this placement is bittersweet. I’m excited about what comes next, but I’ll miss the students, the staff, and the daily rhythm we’ve built together. This experience has taught me the value of patience, adaptability, and kindness, and I know these lessons will shape me as a teacher for years to come.

I wish Sheboygan North a great rest of their school year, and thank you again for having me!

Ms. Ellefson

(FA 2024)