So I haven't posted since my first day at DMS. I realize that after posting this morning. I feel the need to do some follow up so those of you who have been so worried about my adjustment would be relieved.
I posted about the plethora of feelings I was having before my first day in October of 2012. Now that seems like it was forever ago. It took me a while to get the hang of everything, but it didn't take me long to fall head over heels for some of those kids. Just like I said, kids are kids. And I had a few kids this year who were out of this world. I cannot begin to describe the pride I felt as I watched their buses pulling away on the last day as they waved goodbye. I cannot describe the love I felt as I watched 3 girls run to me, arms wide, to give me one last hug before loading. And I cannot describe the amazement I felt as one girl whispered, "I will never forget you. I love you," in my ear.
Only a teacher can relate to what I'm saying. I have always had a hard time saying goodbye, but this time was harder. It was harder because I don't live in their community ... they are leaving ... going to Walton... I won't see them. Ever. Again.
Devastating, I tell you.
So the last week of school was full of emotions.
I watched as my school kids prepared for their summer vacations. We had our 8th grade dance (I wish I had gotten some pictures ... it was so much fun!!) and our field day. We took final exams and signed yearbooks. I packed up my room during post-planning to return everything to my basement; I'm not sure if I'll be returning to DMS or not. I think that's what made the end of the year so much more difficult. I have grown very attached to my school, my students, and my co-workers. I didn't think I was attached until I had to drive away the last day. And as I left amongst "Good lucks" and "We hope to see you soons," I had a tiny sense of finality.
I really hope not. I hope my administrators find a way to bring me back. I hope I have a chance to work with the amazing teachers at DMS again. I hope I'm able to see some of those little people again -- Walton football games may be calling my name.
But that's where I stand. I am forever thankful for a friend who took a chance on me and talked me into "just come in to meet with the principal." I'm thankful to a principal who always tells it like it it and doesn't candy coat things. I'm thankful to the teachers who welcomed me in and helped when I needed it but also let me find my own way if I was capable. I'm thankful to the parents who made me feel valuable. I'm thankful to the kids who made me feel like I'm still hip (wait, they don't use that word anymore??). And I'm thankful to the precious butterbeans who let me watch them grow. (They hated it when I used my little pet names on them ... especially the boys ...)
