TCC Teacher Preparation Within Advanced Classes

Several of the Bay Area candidates for the June ’93 Alameda Teacher Accreditation Course began formal preparation in January. An advanced TCC class with the intent toward perfection of movements and absorption of practice principles was offered monthly. This additional support was an adjunct to the candidates’ individual coaching with their recommending teacher/coach.

Outlining the training Prerequisites for Recommendation provided a framework for familiarization with the background, development and terminology contained in the TCC text. These suggestions for independent study of relative materials were followed by discussion prompted in questions posed to the group.

Much of the meeting time focused on clarification of the way to perform the movements. Circularity and synchronicity were common principles explored for moving more fluidly and relaxed. Candidates were again encouraged to actively seek individual guidance from their coach and to apply themselves in their practice to integrate any newness.

The group was very supportive of each other during the whole growing process. An evolution from sharing initial shyness/nervousness to constructively challenging/stating ones certainty took place. Candidates culminated the experience by practicing their unique TCC presentations upon peers’ ears. Once more the opportunity to affirm themselves arose through an expression of TCC. The profound progression of chi/healing was notable as the participants seemed fuller yet emptier at the conclusion of the course.

Other Supportive Events Preceding the Training

A few months before the training, we were fortunate to have Steve Ridley in the area and he graciously agreed to offer an evening for informal questions and answers related to the teacher training process. During this gathering candidates, coaches, and future candidates met and aired concerns or thoughts which were clarified and validated. Generally this meeting served as a social ice-breaker as well as an opportunity for the future teachers to feel confirmed in their commitment to becoming accredited.

A TCC Renewal-Teacher Review was well attended the weekend before the training (Sat. June 5). “Moving more closely toward mastery of TCC and how to better convey its subtleties to students” was an enriching starting premise for the event. The development of the program content seemed to expand on the meaning of continuing education by meeting individual needs in the consciousness of participants as well.

Successful TCC Teacher Training

The large training class, which Steve led appeared well-prepared and spiritually attuned with TCC. As the third course this host sponsored, it was evidently the charm. The course was guided so smoothly with sensitivity and respect for each participant that love seemed all that bound us! Thanks Steve! Thank you dear candidates for your empty cups and expressed truths. Thank you area instructors (Sandra McAlister, Linda Braga, Lois Mahaney, Vic Berg, Donna Shaffer, Adele Wenig, Margaret Weber, Hope Ridley, Joanne Sultar, Linda Meyer) for caring to share your knowing from teaching and practice experience. Thank you Justin for lighting the TCC spark that shines more brightly as we discover real joy thru movement!

– Liz Salada