a whole new set of issues . . .
I wonder if I will be one of those veteran teachers who spend their lives in the classroom? Will I always experience the thrill of anticipation that comes with getting a new group of students? Will my passion for discovery and learning wane? If this is the calling God has for me, does it mean I should pursue further education? Will I wake up some day and feel like this is "just a job" or will I continue to be refreshed by each new challenge?
I just completed my sixth, First Day of School. Apparently time flies when you are having fun because it wasn't that long ago that I was spending hours on those lengthy lesson plans my college professors required. I remember all the theory those teachers shoved down my throat, and it didn't take me long to realize why they were so adamant about philosophy and belief systems.
The real world sucks. Once you hit the doors of your first classroom those theories serve as a life saving device when you feel like you’re drowning. Standardized testing, school budget crises, and emotionally disturbed students are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to educational woes. If you aren’t careful, you can easily go down with the ship.
So what do I do to maintain my sanity? I read. I study. I surf the web a lot! I want to know what works. I seek solutions. Sometimes I hit brick walls, and I throw fits. This year over half of my students speak English as a second language. The majority of my kids live below the poverty line. I struggle to communicate with parents due to language barriers and indifference towards the school systems. Life is not easy in fourth grade, but I’m happy.
I drove home from school today reflecting on my career choice. Gratitude welled up as I realized how blessed I am to be in a profession that I love. I wake up almost everyday, excited about what I do. I hope that never changes.