A Magical Month
The highlight of April 2023 has to be my week in Florida. Although I do miss my parents throughout the year and always wonder how much easier life would be if they still lived in MA, I think visits like this past one make up for it. The winter months for teachers is always difficult because the students are trapped inside, there's a lot of pressure placed on everyone and we are all itching for another break to just breathe. I started counting down the days to this big trip to Disney World many months before, which I usually don't like to do but I couldn't contain my excitement.
Disney World was an integral part of my childhood and even as I get older, I still have so much fun exploring the unique lands and riding the roller coasters and rides. As amazing as it would've been to have my siblings there, it was still great to spend the time with my parents. We only spent two days and three nights in Orlando but we fit so much in. There were only a few things on my list we didn't get to but given the rain and people, I was so delighted with what we achieved. Best of all, after our jam-packed 2 days, we spent a few more days in their beautiful home with little to do.
As much as I love my job, colleagues and students, I felt like it was much needed to spend some time away and recharge my batteries. I love the feeling of not having anything on my mind and just enjoying the day with no worries! It was tough to return to reality but it didn't take long for me to remember why I chose my career path. My students truly make the long days and the stressful moments melt away. Although it's not always guaranteed, their innocence and respect for me is so rejuvenating and encourages me to come back each day with a smile.
I do have my difficulties when it comes to balancing the fun and the work but the more comfortable I feel with the school's community, the more opportunities I find. I hope to keep improving with finding the right amount of fun in work settings but for the rest of the day that allow for more freedom (lunch, recess, arrival, dismissal, after school, etc.) I have been having a great time. I am tasked with holding the front door open for the first 20 minutes of the day as the buses and walkers arrive. At first, I wasn't happy about it but now, I view as a quick interaction with the majority of the school to create relationships and a positive initial interaction to start their day.
As for the end of the day, hundreds of students are pushed into the gym and are expected to sit quietly in straight lines while they wait for their bus. Lately, I have been hopping from line to line introducing games and ways to pass the time and the kids love it. I am still attempting to have them play independently but as of now, they still rely on me to facilitate. It's still magical to watch various ages (between kindergarteners and 3rd graders) stop their problematic behaviors and listen to me so intently.
With a little over 20 days remaining of my first year of teaching, I am trying to soak in every moment, like I have been saying since I started. I have no idea what next year will bring but I know it's going to be so different yet so familiar. I am so excited for some time off during summer vacation but I am also excited to spend some of it preparing for the year ahead to help my future self. To end this post, I will remind myself of Michael Franti who creates some awesome positive music that I am currently listening to! :)