June 03, 2025

The Real Learning Curve: Navigating the First Years of Teaching

35 minutes

“Learn as much as you can because as you’re learning, your students are learning.” — Cassidy Harwood

“These parents entrusted me with their money, their time, and their children — which is the most precious thing. And I need to do my best.” — Cassidy Harwood

Summer is just beginning, but before you know it, summer will be winding down, school supplies will start to fill the store shelves, and educators will begin preparing for another school year. While veteran teachers face familiar routines with fresh challenges, a special group of educators are experiencing a mix of excitement and nervousness that comes with their first year in the classroom.

In this episode of the Teacher Edition podcast, Jenny Copeland sits down with Cassidy Harwood, a fifth-year Christian educator, to hear about her experience and insights navigating the first years as an educator — from the moments that terrified her to the experiences that confirmed her calling.

Cassidy’s advice for new teachers: “Go in with a big heart, and have so much fun. When you do your best, God takes care of the rest. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself — your students don't want perfection; they want authenticity.”

Whether you are a new teacher seeking encouragement or a veteran looking to support your colleagues, this conversation will bring valuable perspective.

Key Takeaways:

Being prepared reduces stress and creates confidence in the classroom

Parent relationships thrive when approached as a team effort

Sometimes the best learning happens outside the lesson plan

Having mentors of different ages provides valuable perspective

Small, authentic moments create lasting impact on students

Every teacher will experience something different; however, hearing another teacher’s story is helpful. For some, there may be tears, and for some, laughter. Hearing one educator's experience may help you before you start your first year, and for those more seasoned teachers, to remind us why we started teaching. Listen to Cassidy’s biggest takeaway, as it may inspire you to slow down and take time to have fun with your students.

Every day in the classroom is an opportunity to impact and inspire through God’s power and grace.

Go do what God has called you to do!

Resources Mentioned:

Class Dojo for behavior management

Lakeshore Learning materials

Kahoot games for interactive learning

About Our Guest

Cassidy Harwood is from Asheville, NC, and came to know the Lord at the age of five. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 2019 and then became a K5 teacher at Calvary Christian School in Greer, South Carolina. Cassidy is also active at her church, where she works with the middle and high school girls. She loves shopping, time with friends, and family — and, like all teachers, catching up on sleep!