As another year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on the journey I have taken as a teacher. I look back at what I was planning and working on this past fall and it feels like it was ages ago. Everything is coming together so fast – it is motivating to see years of work come to fruition. At the same time, it has been an exhausting experience, both mentally and physically. The end of the year brings mixed emotions – a sense of relief, accomplishment, and the desire to recharge before the cycle begins anew. Summer is when I overhaul EVERYTHING and this summer is has much planned for it already.

Teaching is a profession that demands constant energy and dedication. It requires us to be patient, creative, and adaptable – and dealing with whatever is thrown at us. The challenges right now are extra- difficult but I am growing faster than ever.

There were moments of doubt when I questioned my abilities and effectiveness as a teacher. If I could start this year over, things would be better. It’s just how growth works.

Despite the fatigue, I also find myself filled with hope and optimism for the future. The end of the year signifies a fresh start and I am deep into overhauling my class to bring more feedback, belonging, and reflection to the daily rhythm of class.

For now, balancing the deep tiredness and the lessons I want to apply is the best I can do. I lost today to dealing with student discipline, but as I improve that will become more manageable.

Looking back on the past year, I am proud of the progress my students have made. We have the first Innovative Arts Expo coming up, I am excited to see what that is like and how it can grow into something amazing at the end of the year.

Onward and upward… with naps and slacking off (temporarily) mixed in.