One question we are often asked is, "Do you miss the classroom?" The honest answer to that is, yes, of course. We have had the opportunity to go serve together at the high school a few times and Kim and I frequently see former students. There are little pangs in our heart when we get hellos, questions about what we're doing, comments on how we're missed, and hugs. And, yes, believe it or not, high schoolers are still willing to hug their former teachers! We have both said that it feels like we are forgetting to go to work, like we're missing something. It is a strange feeling! But I read a quote this weekend that really resonated with me that I'll share:
"I am first a teacher. My job hasn't changed, but my audience has. Now I teach teachers to use strategies and routines. My job is still to impact kids, but now I try to do it by helping teachers be as focused and effective as they can be." - Devona Dunekack, instructional coach
This week, you all have shown us what this truly means with your willingness to listen, your courage as you step into the unfamiliar, and your "A-ha!" moments. And as they are with students, the rewards for supporting teachers are great. Though in just a few short years we won't have hugs from former students to look forward to as we roam the halls, we have YOU and that is something truly special. We are feeling "whole" again!
~Natalie