Tuesday, August 28, 2012

New Responsibilities!

I found out a few weeks ago that my job is changing again this year. I've gone from K-2, to K-3 and now I'm 1-5 with a possibility of K later in the year if we can fit it in the schedule.  I'm not thrilled with the change and it upsets me because I'm used to seeing my K-2 students every day. I haven't worked out my schedule yet but with the numbers I'm afraid it will be every other day instead. Seeing kids every other day plus throw in testing and all the other factors that prevent kids from getting to class every day and I'm having a hard time understanding how I'll be effective. I haven't taught 4th or 5th other than in the lab for a few years so that has me pretty nervous as well.
There are so many changes going on in our school this year, many of them thanks to the NYSED,  that it's going to be a crazy year filled with more testing for the kids and new evaluation procedures for teachers. I'll admit I've been in a funk this past week dreading the changes and the new schedule. But today I gave myself a pep talk. First of all, I'm one of the oldest teachers in the building and I don't want to become that grumpy old teacher everyone is waiting for to retire. Secondly, I'm thankful I have a job and I'm glad I'm not in the regular classroom. Those teachers have a lot more on their plates. Finally, I need to be at the top of my game for the kids. They need a teacher that is positive, caring, willing to work and help them grow as readers. So, let the new year begin. My Plurk buddies assure me that I'm going to love the 4th and 5th graders the most. I'll let you know in a couple of months!