The Decision

Though my workplace is a thirty-minute drive away, I still maintain connections with my doctors in that city, as I plan to return when it's financially viable. Just two days ago, while at my dermatologist's appointment, I finally received the long-awaited email: the classroom was ready for entry.

You might assume I would rush over immediately, considering I was already in town. The old me would have done just that. After all, I was nearby and had finally been granted access to the room. However, the more balanced individual I've become recognized that it wasn't the right moment to visit.

I grappled internally with my desire to jump in, but I took pride in knowing that waiting was the right choice. I had a therapy session scheduled for the next morning, and I felt it would prepare me better for the visit. Although I nearly changed my mind afterward, I had committed to going after my appointment, and I needed to follow through.

It's essential for me to find a balance between procrastination and impulsiveness.

While I had visited the classroom twice before, I had never been alone. The first visit provided a glimpse of how the previous teacher organized the space, and during my second visit, I was with the principal and custodian. I felt rushed on that occasion and couldn't truly absorb the environment due to the chaotic state of the room.

New Beginnings

This would be my first solo visit, and I understood its significance. As I plan to teach for at least five more years, I view this classroom as my professional home.

I recorded myself walking into the classroom for the first time alone, knowing it was a pivotal moment. To my delight, the custodians had done an exceptional job. They thoroughly cleaned the room and neatly placed all the materials against one wall. The sight was overwhelming, yet having everything organized brought relief.

This was my chance to truly understand the space. I could finally explore every corner and assess what was available.

I was grateful to discover that the previous teacher had taken most of her belongings, leaving me with minimal clutter. In past years, I had inherited classrooms filled with unwanted items, so this felt like a fortunate change.

As a Resource Specialist teacher, my previous "classrooms" were merely conference rooms, often quite small. Being in this spacious classroom filled me with immense appreciation; this was my dedicated teaching space.

I stood in awe, absorbing the scene and thanking God. The peace I felt was profound, and I was exactly where I was meant to be.

For those unfamiliar, I had to forfeit my disability benefits to be considered for a teaching position, leaving me with four months of no income. Yet, standing in that classroom, I felt every sacrifice was worthwhile.

The first video titled "The Power of Bonding with Your Students in the First Few Weeks" explores the significance of establishing connections with students early on in the school year. Building relationships creates a supportive environment and fosters effective learning.

Teamwork Makes the Dream Work

This year, I will be working alongside an Instructional Assistant/Paraeducator who previously taught at this grade level. We are already acquainted, but this will be our first time collaborating. She's also new to this classroom, as her belongings were moved here at the end of the last school year.

Our combined materials form a wall of desks and other items. She is another blessing in my journey. She mentioned she would come next week to help set up the room, which I greatly appreciate.

While I may not be the most creative person, she is. I have a clear vision of the atmosphere I want to cultivate in the classroom—one filled with serenity, positive affirmations, natural elements, and educational materials.

Teaching younger students will require some adjustments to my usual decor. Fortunately, my new instructional assistant has experience with this age group and can help merge our styles effectively.

I shared the same photo I included earlier with her, and she responded, "No worries, we've got this. We can set up our room together without a hitch." I nearly teared up with gratitude.

Typically, teachers arrive early to prepare their classrooms. Our official workweek begins one week before students return, during which we participate in professional development.

Usually, instructional assistants don't join us until the first day of school, meaning the classroom must be ready by then. I've never had the support of an instructional assistant during this preparation time before.

The second video titled "Introduction to the Harmony SEL Curriculum" provides insights into a curriculum designed to promote social-emotional learning in students. It emphasizes the importance of creating a nurturing environment for effective learning.

Takeaway

I share this to express my gratitude to God and acknowledge His guidance throughout my journey. I tend to be fear-driven and often forget that God is with me, allowing me to find peace in His presence. I used to worry about what to do regarding this new school year.

Now, I see that God has been in control all along.

Numerous Bible verses remind us of this truth, though I often forget to rely on Him during stressful times.

Philippians 4:19 NIV: "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus."

This year, my focus on mental health through telehealth therapy, alongside physical and occupational therapy after my shoulder surgery, has equipped me to take small steps and avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Moreover, this community has played a vital role in my journey, allowing me to share my emotions, fears, joys, and challenges. Your engagement with my writing has provided immense support, love, and encouragement. Although my writing may not yield substantial financial rewards, the value of your support far exceeds any modest earnings.

I look forward to gaining new experiences to enrich my future writing. I anticipate many stories filled with both delightful and challenging teaching moments, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share these adventures.

Here’s to my future and the last five years of my teaching career. With God’s grace, I hope to retire at that point and sustain myself through my writing beyond the classroom.

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