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New Beginnings

9/4/2023

6 Comments

 

As we head into a new school year, there are lots of changes all around me, some great, some bittersweet, some worrying.

We sent our middle daughter off to Buenos Aires for a semester abroad at the end of July.

We took our youngest to college last week.

Our oldest son is transferring from community college to a 4 year college. Lucky for us, he is living at home.

I began a new position this year, after 28 years in the classroom, as interim assistant principal of the elementary school my kids went to.

My mom and I finished and sent in our second book together, due to be published in January (a collection of teacher essays about teaching).

We are adding an apartment to our house so that my mom can move in (from around the corner!).

In local politics, we have had a huge shake-up of leadership at the district administration and school committee, with the hopeful promise of new leadership coming in November.

Some of these changes feel surreal to me. The fact that both of my girls are away is unsettling. I still expect to see them when I come home, but their rooms are neat and quiet.

The change to being an administrator again was unexpected and happened after the school year ended. Last time I was an administrator, there was a lot I loved about it, and when it ended I couldn't figure out if it was the job or the team I worked with, or both. Since then, I had been hesitant to return to administration. However, last year was challenging, straining, stressful and exhausting as teachers united to demand both a fair contract and an honest administration. I felt the months of struggle wearing on me and was grateful to have a summer of mostly staying home and working only for a week, teaching a class. I feel strongly we should listen to what our gut tells us, and when this job offer came up, I felt genuinely excited - that's when I knew I should say yes to it. So I did, and while part of my heart remains with my colleagues and students at the middle school, I also know that some distance will give me a fresh perspective and new colleagues and students to appreciate. So far, it has been great - a lot of learning, but so many people have been helpful and genuinely kind. I miss being in front of students, teaching, but I also welcome this new schedule and the chance to do something different.

I am trying to roll with the changes of having 2 out of my 3 kids out of the house, but I'm not going to say it's easy. I know they are happy and growing and learning, and that helps - but my heart still aches. I also left my teacher bestie behind, and that's hard on both of us! Luckily my new position is keeping me pretty busy and my thoughts occupied.

Wishing all educators a happy beginning to the 2023-24 school year. I'll keep you updated on my learning and challenges being an administrator!
Picture
https://noguiltlife.com/back-to-school-memes/
6 Comments
Michelle
9/4/2023 05:42:09 pm

I am so excited for you and for the Crocker Farm community. I think everyone is going to win! Muchos abrazos, Michelle

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Kevin link
9/4/2023 06:14:14 pm

Good luck with the new position -- the staff and students are lucky to have you. I know Amherst has been in chaos, but so have a lot of our local school districts, particularly with superintendents in the spotlight (mine, too).
Kevin

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Regina
10/6/2023 05:05:17 pm

I am reading Teaching: A Life's Work for my master's culminating course. I love that you and your mom collaborated on this beautiful, open, honest, and resourceful book. I enjoy reading each chapter and highlighting the parts that speak to me. The best part is sharing what I read and learn with my daughter, who just started her second year as a middle school English Language Arts teacher. She has truly found her passion and says 7th graders are the funniest people on the planet!
-Gina

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best dentist link
2/13/2024 04:34:39 am

Congratulations on all the exciting changes in your life! It sounds like you're embarking on a journey full of new beginnings and opportunities.

While change can feel unsettling at times, it's also a testament to growth and progress. Embracing these changes with an open heart and mind will undoubtedly lead to amazing experiences and personal development.

As you navigate your new role as an interim assistant principal and adjust to having two of your children away from home, remember to prioritize self-care and staying connected with loved ones. Change can be overwhelming, but with support from friends, family, and colleagues, you'll find the strength to thrive in this new chapter of your life.

On another note, as you embark on this new school year, promoting dental health among students and families can be an excellent initiative. Encouraging regular dental check-ups, proper oral hygiene practices, and healthy eating habits can contribute to overall well-being and academic success. Perhaps you could organize informational sessions or distribute resources on the importance of dental care. Spark Family Dental offers pediatric dentistry services in Tracy, CA, which could be a valuable resource for families looking to prioritize their children's oral health: Spark Family Dental Pediatric Dentistry
- https://sparkfamilydental.com/pediatric-dentistry-tracy-ca/

Wishing you all the best in your endeavors as an administrator and in your personal life. Keep embracing change and enjoying the journey!

Warm regards,
Spark Family Dental Team.

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KHAY link
3/31/2024 10:21:49 pm

Great post! I really enjoyed reading your insights on this topic. Your writing style is engaging and informative. Looking forward to more content from you in the future.
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Dental Practice Finance link
5/7/2025 03:40:30 pm

Things to consider as a practice owner

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