Friday, August 8, 2008

What a Week

I worked all week and to be honest, it felt great. I was so tired last night, I fell asleep at 8:30! Something I haven't done since being pregnant (NO! I'm not pregnant).

Today we had our big district kick-off, where all of the teachers (there are 1500 or so!) are in one place to hear the superintendent speak and then enjoy a keynote address together.

I'm a generally optimistic, enthusiastic person who enjoys such things with great pleasure. There are people who grumble about it being a waste of time, but not me. I like feeling part of something so big, so important. I like having a day where we get a pat on a back and a thank you for what we do. Not to mention, free breakfast.

The highlight of the morning was getting to listen to Erin Gruwell. She's the teacher that Hilary Swank played in the movie Freedom Writers. I love this movie and was so excited to hear her speak. She did not disappoint. She talked about teaching to the kids, not to the test. She talked about caring about the students and really finding out what motivates them. It was a great morning.

I am excited for the year to come. I feel so scattered and tired right now, trying to process everything I've heard today.

It is important, this teaching thing. I am honored to be given the chance to try it out, I only hope that some day I'll feel like I've lived up to the challenge.

6 comments:

About Nancy said...

Oh how precious our teachers are to the children of today. You clearly love your students and I pray God will prepare you for the one's He has for you this coming year.
In Him,
Nancy

Jenifer said...

I honestly can't think of a more noble profession. Helping our future grow in mind and body is a true blessing.

Aliki2006 said...

I wish there were tons and tons more teachers like you out there, and that everyone recognized just what a fabulous job you do. I am always so so very appreciative!

And I know what you mean...I do grumble about our "faculty development" workshops (we're having ours next week) but deep down I like feeling inspired and positive for the new year.

Mimi in the Midwest said...

Teachers do need those assemblies to get "pumped" for the new year. I have been at this a long time and have only recently been able to really believe I'm a "Master Teacher". I do believe I live up to the challenge. I am so glad I finally reached that stage of feeling self confident in teaching, even if it took until I was 50 years old.

nikkis30by30 said...

I personally see a LOT of Aunt J in you. I do think that one day you will be the teacher that she is. You are PERFECT for this job. The nice thing about your job is you are still constantly learning, and I know how well you love that. You will never stop growing as a person in your field. Expert? How does one EVER become an expert? I think life is a constant learning experiment and there are no experts in experiments. You are such a wonderful person, OM. I love when you post these things. Thank you for all that you do for children. You are what makes our kids better people, of that I have NO doubt in my mind!!!!

Michelle said...

I think your students are absolutely blessed to have you for a teacher!