I finished my first year of teaching! I made it through the year and believe me, it wasn't easy! I've learned a lot this year. Actually, the Little Darlings and I have both taught each other so much. There is so much I'm going to take with me when I get my next classroom. There are little things and big things that will be different. And though it was hard at times and I cried, there was so much growth by the end of the year that made it all worth it. I know it sounds cliche, but it's really true. I had some kids reading and writing sentences at the end of the year. Most of them couldn't even write their name at the beginning of the year. It's embarrassing to say this, but there was one time I almost cried in class because a little girl read a sentence to me. I was so proud. Proud of them and also proud of myself.
We had a fun week the last week of school. Monday, June 8th, we went to Capitol Aquarium and McKinley Park for a field trip. I had 4 parents volunteer. We had a great time. I saw the cutest thing...They have a quarter machine at the aquarium that lets you get giant pellets to feed the giant goldfish (at least, I think that's what they are) and one of my student's Mom gave him a bunch of quarters. All his friends were jealous and wanted to feed the fish. He put another quarter in and then starting handing each of his classmates a little pellet. It was the cutest thing to me. So sweet and generous. So here are some pictures of us on our field trip.
That Wednesday, we had our pizza party and Thursday was kindergarten promotion and the last day of school. It was bittersweet. The kindergarten promotion ceremony was bigger than I'd expected. The cafeteria was full of parents! We called every child's name from each of the classes and gave them their certificate. After, I had my class come back to my room for refreshments. It was like a big goodbye party. An uncle of one my students does balloon animals and made one for each child. It was so cute! I got a lot of nice gifts from my students' parents, including two scrapbooks they made for me.
As for my job next year, I don't have one yet. I'm still pinked. I was also supposed to teach summer school, but they cut that too. I'm on the sub list for next year, so we'll see what happens. Some people get hired even after the school year starts. Also, there are always other opportunities. Someone may go on maternity leave or get sick. I could be a long-term sub. I'm just staying positive right now. I'm sure something will turn up. I'll just have to wait and see.
