What would you do in my situation?
Back in 2023, I was in my first practicum for my major. I’m an education major and my practicum required me to teach two math lessons & one science lesson.
I was teaching my science lesson to my 5th graders with my CCT (classroom certified teacher) in the room since she was always required to be there. My field supervisor was in the back taking notes. (Also note - I was an instructional assistant working there as well so these were my kids from my grade level!)
My lesson was thorough on solids, gas, and liquids. The students were heavily engaged, they were asking questions. They were commenting. So on. I was having fun, I was enjoying teaching the lesson.
After my lesson, I go to do the debrief with my field supervisor. She asks me how it went and I tell her it went well! I thought I did an amazing job.
She looks me dead in the eyes and says, “That was the saddest thing I’ve ever seen. I mean truly, that was a disappointment. I think you need to find a new career path because you are not meant for this.” Then proceeded to start to input she was failing me in every category.
When she told me that, I stared at her. What kind of field supervisor does that? My understanding is their job is to encourage and help you learn. She was an elderly woman who had a problem with not just my teaching but the architecture of the building too. As if that was my decision!
I pretty much started to cry and explained it was my first day back after a traumatic situation had happened in a classroom I was subbing in two weeks prior. So she said she would pity me and pass me by one point.
What would you have done? What would you have said? I wish I said more. I was so mad and angry in the moment. When I told my 5th grade team, they were mad and said they were willing to discuss with her. I should have reported what happened to my higher ups in my major but they always said you need evidence and I didn’t have proof other than word by mouth.
I actually gave up after that. I was so discouraged. I did return a year later. I’m trying to finish my degree because I do want to teach but that lives in my mind now.
Experiencing tough criticism from a field supervisor can be devastating, especially during a crucial practicum that shapes your teaching career. It’s important to remember that such moments, while painful, don’t define your capabilities or your passion for teaching. Many student teachers face harsh feedback, but resilience and constructive responses can turn those situations into powerful learning experiences. If you find yourself in a similar scenario, the first step is to acknowledge your feelings—anger, sadness, or discouragement are all valid. However, rather than internalizing negative comments, try to view them objectively. Ask for specific examples or suggestions to improve, so you can use criticism as actionable advice rather than personal attack. Seeking support is vital. Your 5th-grade team showed willingness to defend you, and collaborating with supportive colleagues can help advocate for you and provide emotional backing. Reporting issues to higher authorities is also an option, particularly if feedback is unprofessional or biased. While evidence is typically required, keeping a detailed journal of incidents, communications, and lesson plans can serve as documentation to support your claims. Remember, a traumatic event prior to teaching can affect your performance, and supervisors should consider your wellbeing. It’s beneficial to communicate openly about such circumstances when possible, to foster understanding. Continuing your degree and teaching journey despite setbacks reveals your dedication. Many educators encounter obstacles before they succeed. Reflect on what you enjoyed about teaching—the student engagement and connection to the subject matter—for motivation. Seek mentorship or coaching to build confidence and skill. Lastly, embrace kindness, as highlighted in the OCR phrase "it's cool to be kind." The teaching profession thrives on compassion—for students and yourself. Challenges will test your resolve, but persistence, positive support networks, and self-care will empower you to grow into an effective educator.
I'd say she was working out her personal problems through you.