In Mrs. Ziemann’s kindergarten, gender is a frequently discussed topic, although I doubt anyone really realizes it is. She almost always refers to the class using the binary term “boys and girls” and frequently addresses them using gendered language. I don’t think it would be accurate to say there are any gender ‘regimes” in the classroom. There has been no observable hostility regarding the topic and the children seem to be content.

to be honest, I don’t think they care or have the ability to consider gender identities. For most of them, I’m sure they have just been told their gender identity from a young age, as most children are. I don’t think they’ve reached the Piagetian stage that would allow them to even consider the deeper implications and meaning of their gender identities they just are a boy or girl.

I can’t really think of any ways gender influenced my education. Although, I will say, as I once discussed with Deborah in her office, looking back I can definitely see how having more men in my education, especially in my elementary years (I didn’t have a male teacher until middle school) would’ve been beneficial. I see myself as a pretty masculine appearing man, with interests in athletics in beyond. If i had a strong male presence like that as a child, it would’ve been awesome, and it’s a big part of why I think I want to pursue elementary education after Carleton.

Unfortunately, I was pretty sick this week. I had to miss my tutoring times early in the week and couldn’t go to the school later in the week because Mrs. Ziemann said they wouldn’t be open. I missed the kids and my favorite activity of the week a lot. You really don’t realize how much you enjoy something like this until something like an illness comes up and you absolutely cannot come to the school. I look forward to returning to the school and observing Mrs. Ziemann and the kids some more!