Good-byes and Hellos

Two of my best buddies, Brody and Myles.

Ayden did not take long to make up to Jeanie!

 When school was over in May, I had no idea that my life would be changing dramatically before August.  On the way home from our trip to Canada, I was contacted by the director of our Special Education Co-op about a new job opportunity, Special Education Academic Coach for all schools in USD #470.  I had discussed the need for this kind of special education position in the district with 2 of my past administrators, but it always seemed like an "over the rainbow" kind of idea, and here it was - a reality.

I agreed to interview, but had some serious doubts as to moving forward. I truly believe that my heart is at IXL with these wonderful women educators. Just being a part of their everyday life is a source of energy for me. I hesitated to change that, and the easy step would have been to remain there for the remainder of my career.  However, there are times in life when you think, "Every step of my journey so far was in preparation for just this." and I was at that crossroad.  Telling the gals about my decision was difficult, and Alyssa really hoped someone would "beat me up" for it.  Within days I learned that my best friend, Jeanie, would be moved to my position at IXL, which meant that "my kids" would be entrusted to someone I knew would be great with them. 

The great group at IXL decided to have a party to say goodbye to me and hello to Jeanie.  Of course, their young'uns were invited as well, and we had a grand time.  The final result was a move from a classroom at IXL (I had been there 32 years) to an office in Adams Elementary, a 1-week earlier start to the school year, and trying to figure out the job description of a totally new position! 

Can you believe they let me have the floor?

 A calm moment... unusual when you get these 3 together!

One of the many babies I "adopted" this past year!

Writing about all this from half way through the year, I will say that most days, I really enjoy the new position. I have learned much, and I hope I have been helpful to the teachers I am mentoring.  One highlight is when I walk in Kellie's room (yep, my daughter-in-law is one of the teachers I mentor), her kids say, "Miss Kellie, it's your MOM!!" 

I have a schedule that allows me to be in every building 2-3 times a week, including IXL.  I am staying in touch with my little buddies as time allows, and looking forward to another semester. Taking that new road was a good turn. Trusting the journey!