a difference

Almost one week down. I forgot over the summer how exhausting the whole standing on your feet all day can be. I also forgot how much I talk! My body aches, my throat is still killing me, and I can't talk louder than a whisper.

Despite these minor ailments, it's been a great first week. I'm looking forward to tomorrow, as Friday's are 'short days,' when students leave at 12:40. The bad part is that I have meetings all afternoon until 3 or so. Tomorrow is our faculty meeting.

I had a great compliment today from a fellow teacher at lunch. She asked about a certain journalism student who was in her sewing class last year and who caused problems in that class (as well is in my 8th grade English class). I let this student into journalism because I felt like she had great potential if she just tried. She was consistently tardy, rarely did work, and disrupted class with random questions. This teacher, who had the same problems with the student, told me today that this same student who a year ago would walk into all of her classes nearly 20 minutes late has been on time every day this week, has done all of her work in class, and cannot stop talking about journalism class. The teacher said that she really feels that the student has found a 'purpose' to school in my journalism class and is excited to be part of something good instead of negative. I kind of feel like, even though the first week of school isn't over, I've made a difference in one student's life this year. I'm proud of this student and have told her that this week and I think that's made a big difference.

Speaking of journalism/yearbook students, yesterday I had them all fill out applications on which position they wanted. I have yet to look through the applications, but from their chatter in class today, they are all anxious to find out what their job is. I hope with the long weekend I can come up with a final position list and we can get started.

I beat all of my classes yesterday in the blanket name game; meaning, I got everyone's name right. They all thought I was psychic, had a camera, or the blanket was see through. I kept telling them that, no, actually your teacher is just amazing. They all begged to play again today, but the work at hand was calling.

I found out yesterday that I now have to student aides in my 5th period...my prep period. This is great because they can do things for me like make copies, put up bulletin boards, run small errands, and do stuff in my classroom (and also, help me move in December!). They are two fun girls who work quickly and who I can trust. While they are doing those tasks, I'm able to catch up on grades, organize lesson plans, and prepare myself to teach a new concept. I just hope I can always find something for them to do!

It's 8:30 and I'm ready for bed. I'm really hoping that I don't get sick because it certainly feels like it.

Happy almost Friday, everyone!