Sunday, March 4, 2012

A Whole New World

Tomorrow, I begin a new adventure. After 17 years at my old school, I begin teaching kindergarten in different school.
Friday, was my last day and after hugging my students goodbye, I brought them to the dismissal gate where I hugged their parents goodbye. I had a good cry because this has been my family and my home.
Afterwards, I got in my car and went to meet my new boss. I think we are going to get along very well because we share similar views about how to best serve our students and about encouraging healthy eating habits.
But, I am still very nervous about this adventure. After being second guessed and derided for a considerable time, I have begun second guessing myself. Even as I am told by colleagues and parents that I am a terrific teacher and even as I read that the effective strategies to be implemented are none other than those I have been using for most of my career, I question my ability.
Well, time I suppose to get some tea and relax before the next chapter begins.

Sunday, January 8, 2012

Where Is the Love?


This year January 9th will be Halloween part 1. I am going to don a happy mask and pretend to be somebody else.
Tomorrow, I will be returning to work after a three week holiday break.
Usually at this point I am excited to see my students and begin a new semester. I can't wait to see how many have lost teeth, grown taller, are more capable, and are eager to learn.
This year I can't muster that enthusiasm. I should be completing my lesson plans and entering my test scores into a database, but I am paralyzed by fear.
If you've read my blog before, you know that I love teaching. While it wasn't the job I ever imagined that I would want, I have loved being a teacher. I am even hopeful that I will love teaching again...
But what will I do about tomorrow?