Educators with PRIDE Unite

[bkisbutchenuff]

Originally Posted by spritzerJ

Good Morning! Welcome Pink! Sounds like you have an interesting job. This is a great thread for sharing triumphs and struggles.

I've taught for 14 years. All in elementary special education. Next year is a big transition for me. I'll be moving to 2nd grade. I am super excited and a wee bit scared. I've been a dual endorsed teacher all this time and finally I am making a break from special education. It was past time.

The last 2 years I've really enjoyed the students I am worked with but found the job of being a "case manager" and "special education team member" to be frustrating. This was compounded by working in a school with a wacky vice principal (who is the sped supervisor) and not real assertive principal. Turns out their leadership (lack of) was just the final straw to get me motivated to finally leave. I've been a bit crispy burnt out on sped for a while. I love to teach though. So the classroom is where I am headed.

The transition to 2nd grade is coupled with a big life move. My partner, daughter and I have settled in Maine together. This means a new district (big school in a small town in the "down east Acadia Region" of Maine), new grade, new everything. Luckily my partner is very supportive! My daughter is going into 2nd grade too so this is becoming quite the family bonding change.

I visited the state department of education last week to apply and learn about Maine licensure. I learned I need to retake my Praxis tests and a couple other odds and ends. So I'll be studying. I've also ordered a couple of books to refresh myself on the "general education" side of things. The specialist to classroom teacher perspective is going to be interesting and a ton of work.

I think I am ready!

spritzerJ,
Allow me the opportunity to say how proud I am of you! As I write this, please don't think that I'm simplifying what has been life changing challenges and decisions for you on so many levels.
You are an educator through and through ... You go to work everyday to make a difference, to move children forward academically and personally. You don't waiver on your core beliefs as an educator...though you may often have to be compliant, you are not complacent. You are ready for second grade...you will seek guidance, use the resources available and will do everything possible as a child advocate to ensure every student in your class meets and exceeds...
You do have a loving and supportive partner. The three of you are starting a journey filled with adventure, challenges, love, sacrifices, teachable moments, personal and professional ... Enjoy and cherish each and every day.
Last year was horrific. You never ceased in finding words of encouragement...Not soon forgotten...
Thank you for being you....
Best wishes with your new life! You are ready!