Friday during class as I circled the room to check if any students had questions, I noticed a student writing in his notebook. As I passed his desk, he covered it up quickly and apologized for being off-task. I asked what it was for since usually this turns into a discussion about time management. He said that he was reviewing a music album. Intrigued, I followed up with where he submits his critiques. He said he has thought about it but never has. I told him that was his homework for the weekend. That evening I received an email with a link to his newly created blogspot which contained 3 critiques. Reading through his writings, I could tell he put a great deal of thought into it. One part of his email stuck with me, "writing about it really helps me get my thoughts in order and form better opinions as a listener and a musician. I've got a list going of albums and things to talk about."
Now for years I have wanted to blog but I have used every excuse not to: I'm too busy with two little kids, three preps and six classes; no one will read it; writing has never been my strength. Thinking back to what my student said, the purpose of blogging is to become a better educator so here I go...
Before the 2016-2017 school year, I transferred schools in order to be closer to home and family. For eight years, I commuted 2+ hours daily which took a toll on me and my loved ones. Being the new teacher was not easy. At my old school, I was the department chair and 11th grade level lead teacher. Colleagues came to me to ask questions and I informally mentored new teachers. Now I did not even know where the copy room was. I was also going from 1:1 Chromebook environment to a school with limited technology outside of the computer and design classes. With so much change, not to mention just having a second child, it has been a struggle to find balance. I am still searching for my ideal "classroom." Though in all honestly, I know I will always be searching, reflecting and adjusting.
December 19th, 2017 changed the course that I was heading on. My stepmom passed away from a courageous, four year battle with cancer. This school year, my mind has been filled with thoughts. I was trying to juggle the kids (my two and 170+ students), six classes, three preps and coping with knowing that I would be losing one of the most important people in my life. I stopped tweeting and went through the motions of teaching. I skipped one of my favorite activities this year in order to "keep up" with the other teachers. I was not taking risks to grow.
When a loved one passes, it really make you re-evaluate your priorities. I need to pursue my passions. Why was I shutting myself off from what would bring me joy? I was not focusing. After winter break this year, I was talking to a colleague about finally feeling relaxed at the end of the break. Clearly, I need to be more mindful. I know many people talk about their word for the year. I have never done this before but why not. I cannot keep doing the same thing and expect different results. So this year my word is mindful. Mindfulness of being in the present moment.
Blog Ideas List:
Now for years I have wanted to blog but I have used every excuse not to: I'm too busy with two little kids, three preps and six classes; no one will read it; writing has never been my strength. Thinking back to what my student said, the purpose of blogging is to become a better educator so here I go...
Before the 2016-2017 school year, I transferred schools in order to be closer to home and family. For eight years, I commuted 2+ hours daily which took a toll on me and my loved ones. Being the new teacher was not easy. At my old school, I was the department chair and 11th grade level lead teacher. Colleagues came to me to ask questions and I informally mentored new teachers. Now I did not even know where the copy room was. I was also going from 1:1 Chromebook environment to a school with limited technology outside of the computer and design classes. With so much change, not to mention just having a second child, it has been a struggle to find balance. I am still searching for my ideal "classroom." Though in all honestly, I know I will always be searching, reflecting and adjusting.
December 19th, 2017 changed the course that I was heading on. My stepmom passed away from a courageous, four year battle with cancer. This school year, my mind has been filled with thoughts. I was trying to juggle the kids (my two and 170+ students), six classes, three preps and coping with knowing that I would be losing one of the most important people in my life. I stopped tweeting and went through the motions of teaching. I skipped one of my favorite activities this year in order to "keep up" with the other teachers. I was not taking risks to grow.
When a loved one passes, it really make you re-evaluate your priorities. I need to pursue my passions. Why was I shutting myself off from what would bring me joy? I was not focusing. After winter break this year, I was talking to a colleague about finally feeling relaxed at the end of the break. Clearly, I need to be more mindful. I know many people talk about their word for the year. I have never done this before but why not. I cannot keep doing the same thing and expect different results. So this year my word is mindful. Mindfulness of being in the present moment.
Blog Ideas List:
- Grading
- First period tardies
- What standards are we focusing on?
- Family Involvement