Yesterday I spent a few hours at my old school and I realized that I really actually do miss it. I miss being there and in the daily grind that I know many of my fellow educators need a break from.
I’m not sure calling it my ‘old’ school is the right terminology because I still wholly consider it my school. I’ve been volunteering with an after school club that I started a few years back with a fellow teacher and the club is full of former students and kids that I’ve come to know through the years.
As I’ve helped out with this club, it has been after school hours and I cross paths with some of my teaching friends if I’m lucky enough on those days, but today I was there during the day and it filled me up in a way that I hadn’t realized was needing it. Ironically, my confirmation letter came in the mail today that I’ve been approved for an additional year of Child Care Leave for next year. I have no doubt that this is the best decision for our family, although today I was reminded that the teacher in me is still alive and well.
As I maneuvered through the halls and intersected with familiar faces of fellow teachers, parents and students, I realized that I can thrive and be a teacher and a parent. It just might be a slow evolution and when I return to the classroom I most likely won’t be the same exact type of teacher that I was when I left. Hopefully, if I’m lucky, I’ll be better.
Hannah,
Your post rings true with me too as I just got my confirmation letter for my second year of leave as well from the Issaquah School District. I do miss my colleagues and my students, but we’re being teachers every day and every second at home. What a gift.
Oh, you KNOW you’ll be better!
I loved seeing you being in that role again today— You are so natural! Also I loved that plaid shirt. After you were through wearing it both of my girls wore it! It was one of my favorites. It is probably out there in the world being someone else’s favorite right now!