I'm still alive. I know you were wondering. It's just that since March (I honestly can't believe it's been that long), so much as happened and changed. Let me give you the speed-racer version:
1. I decided to the leave the school district I worked for. It was so hard because I had made a name for myself and was well established, partially because I grew up there, but I didn't feel like my beliefs in education mirrored those of the people in control of the district. There were tears because change is hard, but I am 23456765432% certain God led me to the right place.
2. I wasn't alone in my decision and there is something to be said when there is a mass exodus from a school or district. The people that I worked with that are my besties in life and in work are almost all embarking on new adventures at different schools or in different districts and there is comfort in knowing you weren't the only one who "left the nest".
3. I got a new job in a new district. I am now a GT Specialist at an elementary school in a district that is equivalent in distance to my old district. The comparison stops there. I have heard nothing but positive things in every training or meeting I've attended and the teachers and parents in this district, LOVE this place (I'd I totally do too). It is so refreshing to hear repeatedly that in [my new district], our job is to love kids. Umm, hello...sign me up!
*Ironically, this district has outstanding test scores and yet test scores have been mentioned exactly zero times. #lessonsothersshouldlearn
4. Remember that time I was middle school certified? (If you didn't, it's because after doing my student teaching and graduating with a 4-8 certification, I immediately pursued my elementary certs--middle schoolers are crazy, ya'll. Bless you middle school teachers #shoutouttomyhubs) ANYWAY, this special little certification is actually coming in handy because this year I will be teaching PreAP 6th grade Math to some very gifted math students at my school. :) My math course will rely heavily on technology so stay tuned for my transformation into #supertechnologyteacher
5. Monday starts my new adventure (with the kids). I'm thrilled. I know I am exactly where I'm supposed to be. The staff at my new campus is phenomenal and I'm amazed when I realize that, if Jackson were in "big school" already, I wouldn't even have a preference of which teacher--because they are all that good. They really truly love kids and can't wait for the school year. Can I get a #blessed?!
So, here's to the new year, and here's to hoping I blog again before 2017!
