Goodbyes

Two years ago I packed up my classroom at Woodville High school to move to New Hope Elementary school to "Better" myself. It was the best thing to do at the time. I was now going to get paid more, be closer to home, and be at the school that Ellie will attend. I really struggled with wether I should leave or not. I had tenure in Jackson County and would lose it moving, but again I felt it was the best decision.

Guess I was wrong.

Now two years later, I'm packing up my classroom at New Hope Elementary to move it into storage. No other classroom to move it into. Are you shocked?

I was, when I got my letter Tuesday afternoon. I had made it through two rounds of cuts and transfers, and even signed my coaching contract for next year!!! I thought I was good! Then out of no where I get hit with this. I felt like I had been hit by a truck. It came out of nowhere.

For two years, I taught 7th grade life science. I used lots of my high school lessons and labs to help "enhance" the students learning. Test scores proved what I was doing worked. Kids liked my class. I also coached basketball and softball. I felt like I was doing the best I could with those too. I enjoyed it. I was part of the LTF training (getting kids ready for AP classes in high school), took over the 21st century classroom (lots of technology and tech requirements), headed up the athletic banquet this year, got along very well with co-workers, and seemed like the "tech" person for 7th grade teachers. I thought I finally found the perfect job for me. Where I wanted to be till I retired.

I felt like I was a failure as a teacher. I thought I had done everything I was suppose to, played it by the book. I don't remember the last time I was this upset. Why? was the only thing I kept saying. That "Why?" still hasn't been answered.

Guess someone else has something better planned for me. I can't believe that this happened. All I can do now is pray and hope for the best. It's scary not knowing if you will be able to find a job or not. I am so scared that I won't find one. This economy and new laws may not allow it. I feel like I am valuable as a teacher. I hope that someone sees that and gives me a chance.

As for now, I will say my goodbyes to my New Hope friends. I hope that you will stay in touch (and I secretly hope you will miss me more when school starts). So Goodbye Friends! I'll see you around.