Beginnings
Thirteen years ago was my first year of teaching, and I still remember it as clearly as if it happened yesterday. There were weeks of preparation, decorating, and organizing. Then there was reviewing and planning the curriculum, and deciding on the best classroom management for my teaching style.
Here is the thing, I am a planner and yet nothing could have fully prepared me for that first year of teaching. On the first day of school, I stood in front of a group of 8th graders and thought “I am not sure I really know what I am doing.” Truthfully, I didn’t have a clue what I was doing.
But. I. Gave. It. My. All!
I cried almost once a week. I laughed daily. I developed relationships that I will cherish for the rest of my life (school community bonds are strong).
I jumped in the deep end of the pool from the moment I started teaching. There was no other choice; either sink or swim. I quickly realized that this career was all consuming. Well, to be honest, I didn’t realize it at first. It was undeniable that I worked many hours, both at the school and at home. Other signs were not quite as visible, such as the non-stop conversations I would have about school with anyone willing to listen, the sleepless nights, and the high levels of stress. Yet, there was passion for the students and curriculum. A deep love for the kids and joy when I saw them learn and grow. The good, and the not so good, were both all consuming.
I can imagine most of you have stories similar to this. What was your experience starting your journey as an educator? Take a moment to reflect on it.
How did you feel when you started?
What were you most excited about?
What were you most nervous about?
What inspired you to be an educator in the first place?
How do you feel today?
What has changed?
What has stayed the same?
There is a reason why nearly half of all educators quit within the first 5 years of teaching. This imagery I created describes a typical experience, and for many it is not sustainable. The key is finding ways to keep the passion we felt when initially becoming educators. I believe one of the ways to do this is through wellness. We will find a more fulfilling experience through understanding our physical, emotional, and collective wellness.
For now, we are on the verge of our summer break where we step away from our classrooms, halls, offices, school buses, and cafeterias. The students leave the building and you can take some time to decide how the next school year will look.
I hope you learn, grow, relax, take care of yourself and your needs. Most importantly, always remember what brought you to this journey in the first place. I look forward to sharing topics such as finding balance, authenticity, managing stress, self care, and bringing in others to share their experiences. Let’s walk this journey together.
