School's Out for Summer!

[bookaddict88]

I survived my first year of teaching!!!

It's been a crazy and challenging year.  Frankly, I'm not a very good teacher yet, especially in the area of classroom management.  And that led to lots of stress, tears, exhaustion, and even burnout at times.  The year was not without its high points, of course.  Teaching can be fun, and rewarding...even if you're a first year teacher who feels like she has no clue what she's doing and not enough support.  I had a not insignificant number of those happy moments.  And I certainly loved each of my kids individually. 

But I'm incredibly glad it's summer.  This summer, even with my trip to China, will be the most relaxing one I've had in probably 10 years.  I'm looking forward to the chance to relax, rejuvenate, and ready myself for next year.  Because next year will be crazy again, especially since my school is moving buildings and adding a sixth grade.  But by August, I will be rested, and will hopefully have things planned and prepared so that next year goes much more smoothly than this year did.

Comments

[sartorias.livejournal.com]

Classroom management is always going to be tough if you don't want to terrorize them. But one thing that will help is the Machiavellian approach, that is, when school opens again, you are strict as anything. One warning, consequence. One warning, consequence. Impartial--it's never about the kid, but about the incident or the undone work. They settle faster into a routine if you are tough from Minute One of the new school year.

[danceswithwaves.livejournal.com]

At least it sounds like it was good overall. Have fun in China! (Sounds like everyone's going. My sister's going for an immersion program and I may be going in August to visit her.)

[asakiyume.livejournal.com]

Congratulations, though, on finishing a year! What an accomplishment! What an amazing year it must have been, as well. Enjoy your well-earned break.

[3rdragon]

Congratulations!