So this is it. The last day of school before summer of my second year of teaching at this high school. Two years! It's crazy how quickly and how slowly time can go by at the same time. As I sit here I start to reflect on all the things that happened this year and how it really was a great school year. It is quite surreal it ending now. It happens to me every year, but as I sit here I have a rush of ideas for new projects for my students to try and all these new things I want to test to make my classes even better.
I had some incredible students this year. The more I teach, the more and more I enjoy it. The bureaucracy of it all...I could do with out. But the students, they really are what keep me here and remind me why I wanted to teach in the first place. It sounds so cliche, but at the same time so true. I had one student stay after his final yesterday to personally thank me and it was all I could do not to cry...I am making an impact. In my own small way, I truly am making a difference and it feels incredible.
Right now I am sitting in my empty classroom...the walls are bare and the whiteboard is clean. All the desks have been scrubbed and all the materials are locked away till the fall. It seems so quiet and clean, and I already miss the noise and the chaos! Don't get me wrong, I am so excited for summer vacation, but I know come August I will be excited to be returning here and eager to try new projects and leave my mark...one project and one student at a time.
This has been a big year for me, and not to sound snobby, but I really am proud of myself. Between teaching, coaching, going to school and dealing with my everyday life, I feel like I am on top of the world and that I can face obstacles, big and small, and finish with a smile on my face and the satisfaction that I gave it my all. Each day makes me stronger - more confident. I am even starting to believe that I actually am a pretty good teacher.
So here's to the summer! A summer of relaxation and reflection. Then back to school once again to make my impact in my own small way. I am truly blessed for my life and I thank everyone in it for making me who I am today
