Well, Summer is dwindling to its end. New beginnings, new goals, new pencils, new books...... A new start to a whole new year.
Yesterday I got word that after 7 years of teaching, and some reorganization in June, that there are no System Positions available this school year. Heartbreaking, to say the least. I was asked to take a long term occasional position, instead. With a VERY LONG day spent at our board office, I decided to accept a long term position until December in a grade 7/8 classroom. I will be covering the maternity leave of a VERY dear friend of mine. It has been a very emotionally exhausting 2 days.......BUT I do know that I chose this career because I was called to it. And I love my job because I LOVE what I do-- I love teaching kids and making learning fun (not for the money and the benefits). I also realize that I am in a better position than other colleagues and friends, who have also been laid off and have not been called back yet.....and I don't take that for granted for one second.
What would I do without my friends? Last night 2 friends stopped by my house to reassure me that everything was going to be ok and brought resources along to help me. Today I ventured to my new school (which I taught at 7 years ago) and two of my good friends immediately came to my rescue and assisted me right away (one being the teacher I am covering for and the other, an amazing friend that will drop everything to help--always)!
I decided to make a few changes to the room and the teacher I am in for gave me the green light and said "It's your room now, you do what you want. Change it up!" Fortunately she is Type A and is very organized and neat. We revamped her room, changed boards and colours and reorganized some of her materials-- which is not a normal scenario, but SO AWESOME! The planning and organization will continue throughout the upcoming week, but my nerves and emotions are slowly beginning to calm.
Here are a couple before and after pictures of a few boards in her room. I will share the rest of our 9 hour venture when I wrap my head completely around this new move and new path.
BEFORE
AFTER
BEFORE
AFTER
The awesome part is I get to run my ideas by the fabulous teacher I am covering, and she is so open to anything. I am going to work my butt off making sure she comes back from Mat Leave with ease.
I do believe things happen for a reason....I am sure I will discover the reason all in time...
Stay Tuned...
~Kaitlin~
What a change, but I know you'll do a fabulous job :) I admire you for taking on this change head on and with the love for teaching that you always do amidst all the chaos. Also, thank you for acknowledging that you are grateful as I know some teachers may not be. I wish you the best and hope to see you around. Jac :)
ReplyDeleteThank you, Jacqui.
ReplyDeleteI am hoping that you will also get recalled because you are a terrific teacher, as well. XO Hope to see you soon. Enjoy the remainder of the summer, friend.
I'm crying. Idiot. You are the best teacher, and your fierce determination and passion are sn example to everybody.
ReplyDelete