For most people in America, January first marks the beginning of a year, but for those of us in education, September is the beginning of a new year. Our year is from September to June. In administration the year is from July first to July first. The summer months mean different things for different positions - for teachers it is often time away from the routine of school. It is a time to reflect and renew. I often tutored but mostly enjoyed time with my girls and summertime. Summer for us was the beach and all the treasures that come with childhood.
Since becoming an administrator, the summer for me is very busy. I try to balance the time in summer with work and play, but in the curriculum world summertime is a busy time. Preparing for the upcoming school year is a lot of work. Ordering materials, writing grants, making sure the district is compliant with changes from the state, curriculum adjustments and revisions, and preparing for Professional Development consumes the summer months.
On the night before students returned this year, my mind traveled back to my years as a young mother with four girls. How did the years become memories so quickly? My girls spent their hot summer days attending "Angie Camp"- correctly translated as fun with mom. I loved waking up in the morning and saying , "What should we do today?" Our days were filled with beach time, crafts, games and of course summer reading...Neighbors would tell me I was a teacher mom. There was always a project or a puzzle going on at our house. I wouldn't trade those days for the world. I really never wanted summer to end because it meant letting go and allowing the girls' teacher to take over.
The night before school started, I could never sleep. My stomach was filled with butterflies from the expectation of letting go of my children and trusting their teacher to take over where I left off. As a teacher, my mind swirled with lists of things to say and do. I wondered what my students would be like and how I could meet all their needs. I wanted to make my students feel the same way that I wanted my children's teachers to make my children feel- special, important, smart, and loved.
Regardless of the role- parent or teacher, September came with anticipation. There was a common belief. Our adult responsibility is to teach our children to love learning. We need to nurture young children's desire to explore, inquire and wonder. We need to reinforce their natural enthusiasm and facilitate their journey. Teaching and parenting is not just a role and a responsibility- it is a passion. It is a legacy because a part of us becomes a part of the children we teach. Let's do it well.
Happy New year everyone! Let the journey of learning begin.