I have enjoyed the writing challenge this year. I have "met" some great people, and enjoyed their writing. The slice a day has been "challenging" so often I didn't know what to write or where to start. From reading the many posts of others I have gleamed ideas for class, read recommendations for new books, learned new idioms "before the sparrow farts". I have learned about the lives and concerns of many great people. I am sad it has come to an end.
In our district it has been a long standing practice to move teachers to new schools every 12 years. This is my twelfth year. The idea of starting in a new school feels daunting, yet exciting. I have become so attached to the children, families, and staff where I work that it makes me sad that I am leaving. It hurts to know I am leaving this teaching community.
Daily writing has helped me examine many of my thoughts that were fluttering around my brain. I even took risks and shared my writing with several of my classes. Quickly realizing that my writing did not pass my student delighted screening.
I think what I valued the most was the comments. It was proof that someone out there was listening. That what I wrote made a connection, a chuckle, or was thought provoking. Those comments gave me encouragement. They made me feel connected. They made me feel that I was part of a community. The year I participated in the NWP I felt that community, and I have missed that type of daily connection.
This was my second year participating. Last year I only made it a few times. This year I wrote 30 out of 31 days. I feel exhilarated with that accomplishment. What I feel the most is thankfulness. I have learned so much reading "Two Writing Teachers" and the many other blogs. I have found many that I decided to follow. I hope they keep posting on a regular basis. Here is to the future - Tuesday slicing and to the wonderful friendships we are building.
In our district it has been a long standing practice to move teachers to new schools every 12 years. This is my twelfth year. The idea of starting in a new school feels daunting, yet exciting. I have become so attached to the children, families, and staff where I work that it makes me sad that I am leaving. It hurts to know I am leaving this teaching community.
Daily writing has helped me examine many of my thoughts that were fluttering around my brain. I even took risks and shared my writing with several of my classes. Quickly realizing that my writing did not pass my student delighted screening.
I think what I valued the most was the comments. It was proof that someone out there was listening. That what I wrote made a connection, a chuckle, or was thought provoking. Those comments gave me encouragement. They made me feel connected. They made me feel that I was part of a community. The year I participated in the NWP I felt that community, and I have missed that type of daily connection.
This was my second year participating. Last year I only made it a few times. This year I wrote 30 out of 31 days. I feel exhilarated with that accomplishment. What I feel the most is thankfulness. I have learned so much reading "Two Writing Teachers" and the many other blogs. I have found many that I decided to follow. I hope they keep posting on a regular basis. Here is to the future - Tuesday slicing and to the wonderful friendships we are building.
That is an interesting policy to move teachers. I often wonder if some moves might not be a good thing for our school. It is so easy to get settled.
ReplyDeleteWell done on the SOLC this year. Hope you continue to find time to write.
I wish you all the best in your new school. It seems odd to me about the policy. You have joined a community & add to it with your knowledge, of teaching of course, but also of the people. Seems a waste to lose that. However, perhaps the new place will be a welcoming challenge, new thoughts, new ideas. I've loved following your writing, & thanks for my comments too. Happy slicing-see you on Tuesdays!
ReplyDeleteLearning communities are never static and your new school will be so very lucky to have you. I think your word "daunting" is a perfect description. I don't envy your having to pack up. Looking forward to reading your Tuesday slices.
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