Sunday, August 17, 2008

Back to School: A Reflection of Gratitude

Thursday was the first day of school for me. I was walking into lots of unknowns: new principal, two new courses, new computer system. The first day jitters were still there, and after talking to a few veteran teachers, I don't think they will ever go away. On the first day of school I usually experience a delicious combination of nerves, anxiety, and excitement that manifests itself as an urge to vomit. After the first bell rang, though, I was ready. And by Friday afternoon, the miraculous had occurred -- I was not the same teacher I was last year. My room is arranged differently, my lesson plans are altered, and even my manner of talking with my students has changed. After a couple of days of reflection, I want to express my gratitude to the Ozarks Writing Project for all of these changes. Yes, I know I will have moments of frustration and helplessness, but now I feel like I have this incredibly deep pool of resources to go to when I experience those feelings. So thanks to all of my fellow cohorts of the 2008 SI. You are all the best, and I hope your first days of school are as invigorating as mine have been.