Just Had to Blog

Sometimes I leave school thinking, "Why do I do this?" I know that I take my work home with me; the lives of my kids weigh heavy on my heart. What are my students going home to? Have I impacted them at all today? Was my lesson effective? I often believe that I am learning much more from them than they are from me. 

I've talked to my best friend about those "good teaching days." These are the days were productivity, rich discussions, and "teachable moments" occupy my eight period day. The only problem is, they don't happen nearly enough. I realize that I am a first year teacher. In the words of my dad, "Your first year is your worst teaching." It can only go up from here. 

This past week was very encouraging. While I did have more frustrations that not, I felt confident and comfortable. I shared conversations with colleagues that proved that I am surrounded by some of the best. I heard the words, "This is a great place for you to start." No school is perfect; however, my school is perfect for me right now. I am learning, teaching, and bettering myself each day. 

Last night, I had "one of those moments." I was right where I needed to be. It was the kind of moment where you smile and get goosebumps running up and down your arms. My school's girls basketball team has had a very successful season. Last night, they won to advance to regionals (one more step closer to the state tournament). I sat there with my parents, whom I was blessed to have accompany me, and soaked in each moment. The girls and there teamwork, the parents and teachers shouting along with the crowd, and, best of all, the student section. They were awesome - all dressed in black for the "Blackout." They chanted and stood proudly on their feet the entire game. It reminded me of the moment when I realized I was being called to be a teacher. A few years ago, I sat at a high school basketball game, knowing that the school environment was where I belonged. Here I am, living my dream. I couldn't be more proud of my students, my school, and... myself.