My name is Vonda. Today was my very first day as the first grade teacher in a small, rural school on the North Dakota prairie. I have a grand total of seven students. I graduated from college just four days ago with a bachelor of science degree in elementary education. My teaching license was issued the same day. I was hired by the school in December, contingent of course, on my finishing the required elements for licensing. It was quite a thrill ride hoping all components would be in place by my starting date. I cut it just a wee bit too close for comfort, but I made it, and here I am documenting my first day on the job. I AM the first grade teacher.
Did I mention I'm a 48-year-old mother of four?
What made me decide to begin a career when most people are beginning to think about retiring at my age? That is a great question....
I have a great answer.
As I document this, my first year of teaching, I will also answer that question in bits of information. It's not so much that my story is so terribly exciting, but it IS unusual in that I have bucked societal trends in arriving where I am today. If I had the last 30 years to live over would I make different choices? The answer is no. I have no regrets.
The truth is, I believe with all my heart that I will be a far better teacher BECAUSE of my delay in beginning my career. I will share my story a little at a time and you can be the judge.
For today just know that I awoke @ 5 AM with a smile on my face and a song in my heart. My FIRST DAY of teaching! I drove to school with a prayer of thanksgiving in my heart. I served quiche and croissants to the staff for their unwavering support and encouragement. I welcomed a steady stream of student and staff visitors who wanted to see my newly decorated "Magic Tree House" themed room. I greeted my first graders with joy and we began the process of becoming a cohesive group. I watched their shining faces as I talked about the fun adventures I have planned for them.
And I fell in love with seven precious first graders who are already threading their way into the fabric of my life and heart.
I can hardly wait for tomorrow.....
Share this journey with me and the ups and downs that will be a part of this adventure I have embarked on.
These blogs are a great idea. I started one of my own about a year a go called God's Mysteries. The hardest part is having the discipline to write something ona consistent basis. But then, your life is way more exciting than mine.
ReplyDeleteI am excited to follow your journey!
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