Times They are A-Changing

I have been an administrator for a long time – 8 years of my 17 years in schools. It’s a good thing to be an administrator – I could impact students by helping their teachers, I could solve puzzles and analyze systems. But I’ve decided not to be an administrator any more – at least not for now.

COVID was hard on my teachers. It was hard on me, too, but for different reasons. For 2 years, I have traveled almost 40 miles each direction back and forth to school to work in a K-8 school. It has been an amazing experience to learn what goes on at an elementary school. One of the most important things I have learned is that I miss the high school environment. Looking back, I realized that I’ve spent 12 of my 17 years in high school – and my need to be back at high school working with off track students and struggling students has been calling to me.

Recently I was presented with the opportunity to go back into the classroom as a teacher in a high school where I can help to build a program they have never tried. I remember when they were talking to me about it they said, “and you will have to attend a training on the 4th” which of course I responded to, “Great! I’ve actually presented teachers with professional development on this program so I’m really excited to see how this might be different.”

I’m super excited to be back in the classroom, too. Looking back, one thing I really enjoyed doing during my time at the school I just left was covering a 6th grade advanced language arts classroom for a teacher on leave. It was refreshing to be able to build those positive relationships with the students, to watch them struggle and grow. Even though I have opportunities to facilitate learning with adults, it’s not the same and the feeling I get from watching that light bulb click on – that’s just priceless.

Over the next year I will “chronicle” my adventures in the classroom. I will reflect on my lessons learned and share with those of you are interested. Until then – enjoy what’s left of your summer. (4 days – for those of you who are counting)