I had to go back to school today after a two week Spring Break. The hubby was not sympathetic AT ALL. But I know you all are. Because you understand.
I survived. My kids were happy to see me. I gave everyone a chance to share something about their vacation. Here’s just a general list of what I was told:
I went to Disneyland.
I went to Hawaii.
I went to Florida.
I went to Disneyland.
I went to Sea World.
I had a sleepover.
I went to Arizona.
I went to Disneyland.
I went on the biggest Easter egg hunt ever and I found every-single-egg (I think this one was a bit of an exaggeration).
I went to my cousins.
I went to Disneyland.
One little sweetie asked me where I went.
I said, “The Cheesecake Factory!” And they oohed and aahed.
And then I told them that they were spoiled rotten. Luckily, no parent phone calls or emails about that yet.
Before I saw my little stinkers, I saw my principal. She had my letter of intent. As in, do I intend to keep my job next year and, if so, I need to drive myself to the district office by a certain date and sign it in front of them . . . at this point, I don’t know what else she said because I was already driving like a maniac on my way to the district office. (insert Roadrunner sound effect here)
Not really.
I stayed. I will go to the District Office on another day. When I have all the time in the world to do so. You know, between now and the end of the year. I’m sure I’ll have gobs of time while I work on progress reports, assessments, new open house theme, class play, awards assemblies, PTA luncheons, etc. No worries there.
In other words, I stuck around for the rest of what my principal had to say.
First, she looked sad. Then she tilted her head. And she pursed her lips a little.
Uh oh, I thought. Stand still. Don’t make any sudden movements.
She sighed heavily. “We’re going to have to lose a first grade teacher.”
I already knew this. Oh no. She’s telling me this because it’s me. She’s moving me. I am leaving first grade. Panic! FREAK OUT! Heart palpitations! Blood rushing to face! I am going to pass out right here in front of her! I don’t—-
“First, I’ll ask for volunteers,” she continued.
Wait. It’s not me. Phew. Breathe. Rearrange facial features to show I am calm. As calm as a teacher can be on the first day back, and after drinking so much coffee that I used my own energy to start my car. (Am I the only one who thinks everything is about me?)
And wait just a second. Volunteers? Who would DO that? And what are we volunteering for?
“If I can’t get a volunteer, I’ll have to make a hard decision.” She tilted her head the other way. “And that will be really difficult because I love all of my first grade teachers.”
She waited.
Oh! My turn! I should say something. Anything!
“I understand,” I said. Smiled. Nodded.
And then I hightailed it out of there.
Come to find out, we’re pretty sure this would mean going to FIFTH GRADE. We have a teacher retiring there and that’s the only open spot that we can see. And let’s be honest . . . my team spent a good portion of our prep time going over “the numbers” instead of getting ready for these kiddos that we hadn’t seen in two weeks. Priorities, people. I’m all about it.
I will not be volunteering. OBVIOUSLY. DUH.
If I DO get moved, I will have to get a math tutor immediately. And possibly a Science and Social Studies one. And then I will need to enter Clipart Rehab as soon as possible. And lastly, I will need to begin Growth Hormone pills now. Like, yesterday. This is, of course, if I do not end up in the mental ward first.
FIFTH GRADE? FIFTH GRADE?! My hat goes off to you. Well, I’m not actually wearing one, but if I were, I’d take it off.
Kinder? I could do it. I could. I’ve even thought about it.
Second Grade? Okay. Deep breath. Okay. I’ll miss teaching beginning reading but okay.
Infinity and Beyond? No thanks, Buzz Lightyear.
Bummer . . .
PS I am really not worrying about this. I gave it to God. He is in charge. But you know me — I have to tell you everything about my day. Minute by minute.
I had a chicken salad sandwich for lunch, by the way.
Hope you don't have to move! (never heard of a letter of intent…strange how different things are in different places!=)
Jennifer
First Grade Blue SKies
Oh my gosh Kristin, please try not to worry too much! I'm crossing my fingers that everything will work out for you. Are you certain no one on your team is looking for something new?? Ok, I'm sending positive first grade thoughts your way (though I know you would be FINE in another grade level!!)
Kristen
I hope you don't have to move either! Sending good vibes your way π
Journey of a Substitute Teacher
Wow, I do not blame you! 5th graders scare me.. to big and all attitudey.. I also loved the part about clip art rehab!!! haha I don't blame you! I teach K and I intend to stay there π
Becky
Teaching, Learning, & Loving
Don't worry before you don't have too! I hope I don't have to move either but I have already been told my room will be used for Kindergarten and I will have to move out so that means 1st, 2nd, or 3rd for me! I'm only certified PK-3 in all subject areas and K-12 in reading. So really I'm a primary expert and should STAY THERE! Good luck though…I know how stressful it can be!
Oh no!!! I hope you get to stay where you are happy–because we all know if the teacher ain't happy, then no one's happy!!! LOL
I'm a little concerned too. I'm in second (LOVE it), and I had to give a field test to 3rd grade a few weeks ago (WHY??? who knows, but it makes me nervous), and there have been a few little comments here and there that kinda freaking me out!! π
Hopefully we will both still be in our happy place next year. I taught 5th for 1/2 year, and I actually enjoyed it—BUT don't wanna go back!
If all else fails, we could all sign a petition to keep you in first! I mean…1300 people begging to keep you in first ought to be worth something to your principal, right??? π
http://livelaughandlovetolearn.blogspot.com/
5th graders…no offense to any Moms of 5th graders out there…stink and I mean literally. I did a TON of clinical hours in 5th, thinking…Shannon you should really try older kids to see what it's like. I will tell you what it is like, it's smelly and "attitudy". You are right, those biggies have no appreciation for our djinkers.
I hope that things work out for you. Your bloggy friends will hook you up with weight lifting classes if you end up in 5th. Keep us updated.
Shannon
Kindergarten Hoppenings
Oy vey. What a day. Take a deep breath. I think giving it away as it is out of your power was wise. I have taught 6th and 8th, so I would help you, but they are fools if they think you aren't supposed to stay put. I will send out the best karma I have, but in the meantime say exactly what you want to the universe so you will know it when you see it and grab it.
Kimberley
First in Maine
If I ever had to move our of special ed. land, it would be K or 1, everything else is too scary!!!!!
Rachel
Ms. Rachelβs Room
TWO weeks!?! (insert foot stomping and pouting)
We got our letters of intent before break, I mean, our three days. They won't move you…they wouldn't dare!
2B Honey Bunch
The Best Endings
The Honey Bunch Blog Design
Wow – that would be a move. It probably won't be you. That's the way those things usually work.
But good for you giving it to God and letting Him keep it. I tend to give things to God and then, in, like, ten minutes, I'm saying, "Could I get that back? Maybe I should worry about it a little more…"
Buzzing with Ms. B
I feel for you….I'm not sure where I will be next year because there will only be 3 2nd grades. We go by seniority, since I am the least senior at the grade level, I get bumped to another position. I really hope it is 2nd grade or under! This was my first year in 2nd and I really don't want to learn a whole new curriculum next year either.
Ali
An Education Lasts a Lifetime
I am totally not in your position because the only way I'd change grade levels is if someone begged to be in first/second. And I already know that all the other teachers (all 4 of them) look like they are going to be ill when they talk about teaching first grade! So I am safe for shizzle.
And although I am not as short as you, I am still short and I don't like teaching people who are as tall as me or taller than me! Last year when I did a 7th/8th grade maternity leave, I was playing a science game with the kids on the floor, and when the secretary walked in the room, she legit couldn't find me. Not cool!!
Marvelous Multiagers!
You have such a wonderful gift in turning yucky stuff into funny stuff (chicken salad AND cheesecake factory).
Whenever this happens on my campus (AND it happens EVERY YEAR) as the grade level chair I remind our principal that it is important to have a strong team. Team players should stay together. Those that are not supporting the team and working to constantly improve the grade level should be considered for a move prior to splitting up a team.
just sayin'
{That being said, all that is left of our grade level is that said "team" and I'm pretty sure we will be losing yet another 1st grade teacher next year…. so now what? draw straws?}
β€Traciβ€
Dragonflies in First
I had a similar situation a long time ago, and you are right…it is out of your control. I prayed about it daily and God answered my prayers. It is only natural to "worry" about it, but enjoy the last few months left with your kids and I am praying that everything works out for you!
Robynn
BusyBees
Those big kids scare me too! And there's so many of them. And they're stinky. I've got my fingers crossed that it won't be you!!! π
OMG that is right up there with my principal asking who was interested in transitional kindergarten and the room went DEAD. I have trouble being sweet to 5 year olds now they want me to be gentle and loving with clueless 4 year olds… nah. Fifth grade sounds a little much. Tell her you feel your grade level would be devastated to loose you and you want to preserve the integrity of this crucial grade! There. I have your back. I told you so.
Fran
You are awesome! That reminded me so much of the beginning of the school year when I was told, the DAY BEFORE school started, that I'd be switching to 1st grade. I wanted to throw myself on the ground and throw a fit, but I restrained myself…barely. I wouldn't touch 5th grade with a ten foot pole – those kids would catch onto my dorkiness way too quickly! My little ones think I dance funny just to be funny…the 5th graders would see through that and realize that I am just that lame. Luckily I saw this problem in advance and made sure my teaching certificate only allows me to teach up to 3rd grade! Maybe you can use some white-out on yours and change it to K-2nd grade only?!
By the way, was it a homemade sandwich or from the cafeteria?
Jennifer @ Herding Kats In Kindergarten
That was my situation 5 years ago. Our district opened a new school and we had to lose 2 teachers. 2 applied for the new school, but the principal only took one. So, it came down to me and another teacher with the least seniority in the grade level and I lost. I could have taken a fourth grade position at the school or I could be transferred. I took the transfer so the other teacher could keep her job in 4th grade. It all worked out in the end…I went back to my original school after 6 long weeks to a K1 class. It wasn't ideal, but it was a way back. Then the closed our whole school and we were shuffled all over!
Does seniority have a role in this? Are you low man, even though you have a lot of years? We aren't that far in the process yet. We won't get our intent forms til the week before school is out, if that soon! Good luck!
5th grade…..holy ca-moly….I would pass out for sure!! Hope you get to stay where you are!
Ms. McBeeβs Kinderbugs
I just switched to kinder ( my choice ) after doing 7 years in 5th grade. Granted I LOVE KINDER NOW!!!!! And after all it was MY choice….I begged and pleaded because I just needed a drastic change in my life for some reason ( I LOVE change! I know I am weird ) but you CAN do it. I can totally help you out too!!! Advice….complaining…bad days…good days…files that I have….I live in Lake Forest and teach near Pomona/West Covina. I tried to actually make it this past weekend to your get together but ….thats another story for another day. The switch is not that bad at all, I promise!!!!
Okay, I am going to be the rebel here. I don't think it is all about you – I think it is all about ME. I am hoping that you will teach kinder next year. Why? Hint: It is all about ME! Did you figure it out? Did ya?
It looks like I will be teaching kinder next year or even transitional kinder so of course, I want you to teach kinder also. (…and I am hoping Fran draws the short straw and ends up in TK. Sorry Fran, but that is how much I love you!) I taught first grade for about 12 years and for two years have done a K/1 combo. But I really, really want to work with a team so I decided it was time for me to step into kinder (versus the "kinder lite" I have been teaching).
But seriously, I am so proud of you for turning it over to God. He has an amazing plan for you. You will probably remain in first grade, but if not, He will prepare the way for you in kinder. (Whoops … I meant to say "whatever grade you teach".)
Lots of love to you,
Camille
An Open Door
Bless your heart!
You are going to safe…she is going to give you a rose…your torch will stay lit!!!
Be positive:)
Staci
What a terrible way to start your first week back!! Ugh!! Our contract says principals can't move us more than two grade levels. Good luck to you!
Coloring Outside The Lines
Fran you have a way with words….and when you are arguing for your life it is all about words and using the right ones to make your point. This time two years ago my principal…in his infinite wisdom…decided to move everyone, and by everyone I mean half. Half of all teachers moved to a new grade level. I was in 2nd, we had 4 teachers who worked really well together. Two stayed, one went to 4th and I went to 3rd. I loved it, but it wasn't as much fun. I missed 2nd. In his defense he is now much better at listening and is really very supportive. (did I mention that along with changing grades everyone, and this time I mean everyone but two moved their classroom…good thing he is better at listening) This year when a Kindergarten opened up, I thought I want to have fun. What was I thinking? I took it, and surprise! I am having a fun. Teaching is fun. Try not to stress about next year too much. If it is in God's hands…that's all you can do.
Enjoy your team because it sounds like somehow it will change (unless you get more students suddenly move in). Have fun with your open house and make it the best ever. What else can you do (use Fran's words).
Terri Izatt
tizatt@ecsdnv.net
Oh, Kristin:
There's an opening at 5th in my school!!!
Sort of… I think it's more like a shuffle within the District–BUT if they're moving you, I am TAKING you! I'm only 5'2" and I like cheesecake AND coffee with my creamer… and I'm a good team player!
In all honestly, even I have to give this one up to God (Like the way I have suddenly taken control of your life?!)
I just KNOW God knows what is best for you… and I'm pretty confident He knows it's not fifth grade.
You are wished armfuls and heartfuls of calm and peaceful thoughts. (SpellCheck didn't like heartfuls, but I thought it had a nice ring to it!)
It's out of your hands until they give you actual details.
And if it's not what you want to hear, I am fairly certain there are 1000+ of us who will gladly make an appointment to chat with the alleged "Pal."
It WILL be fine.
Kim
Finding JOY in 6th Grade
Did the principal speak to other teachers on your team as well? Praying for God's will in the situation.
Ew. Yuck. And how rude to tell you right when you get back to school. I mean, come on!!! I was moved from a K-1 to 5th in OCTOBER, if you can imagine that, a couple years ago. I died. Then I came back to life and cried for the rest of the year (almost). I hated it! There were parts I loved, but I'll just tell you that if anyone can do it, you can! π Good luck! I'll pray for volunteers.
Eww, I don't think I could teach 5th grade. I will be teaching another grade level next year, but it will be a primary position (I was planning on putting in a transfer and my Principal asked me if I would stay if she switched me grade levels). I was "displaced" my second year up here and was given the choice to stay at my former school and teach 6th grade or move to a new school and teach kinder. I chose to move!
βͺ Miss W
Miss W Teaches
But your sarcasm would do so well in 5th grade!! Hahaha jk please don't hit me!
I like your style~!!
We are in the same position. We are losing one of our teammates after 8 years of teaching together. π My friend volunteered to save us. Isn't that sweet? Anyway, I hope everything works out for you and God will put you (or hopefully keep you ) where you need to be.
Erin
http://www.samplesuperstars.blogspot.com
No wonder why Disneyland was so crowded! I am glad those little stinkers are back in school!
I hit that submit button too fast! Okay…5th grade is not THAT bad…I taught 5th grade. Okay…it's kinda bad…at times. I am glad you gave it to God…he knows. I am going to tell Him you don't want to move. A prayer request is going in right now!
Fingers crossed that it isn't you! I used to teach 5th and it was pretty bad (but I think that had a lot to do with the school I was at. Your school sounds a lot better! Glad you had a good first day back (aside from that news)!
Bonnie
Living A Wonderful Life
Hope you don't have to move to 5th grade. That's a HUGE jump! I started in 1st grade and moved to 4th the next year, but that's where I wanted to be. I couldn't handle teaching beginning reading, etc. I thank God for teachers like you who love that stuff!
Is it normal for teachers to have to sign their letters of intent in front of the District office? They gave ours to us while I was on maternity leave the beginning of February, and my principal just called me to see if I wanted to check yes or no. Usually we just sign them and put them in a box to send to the SBO.
Glad the transition back to school (other than the unpleasant news) wasn't too bad. This is my 1 week Spring break, so I'm hoping to do some more fun blogging!
You make me smile π Keep us posted on what happens π I can't imagine jumping from 1st to 5th….yikes! Those are 2 different animals π I am NOT smarter than a 5th grader…they would eat me alive π I like my little Kinder Kats :).
I understand your fear. In my 8 year career, I have taught the following: 3rd, 2nd, 2nd, 5th grade MATH, 5th grade MATH, 2nd, 2nd, 2nd. The jump from 2nd to 5th was hard, mainly because I left a great group of coteachers in 2nd, but 5th wasn't bad at all. The kids got my sarcasm π But when my 2nd grade cut position became available again, I jumped at the chance. That's where I have been the last 3 years and I love it. If it's meant to be, there's definitely a reason why π Maybe God has a special kiddo in mind that needs ya π
Haley
Following Optimism in 2nd Grade
We do letters of intent too! But ours have to be in by like January! I'll keep my fingers crossed for you about not going to 5th!
If I were you, I would totally tell my principal that I don't meet the height requirement to teach 5th grade! (I'm not very tall, so I probably don't either!–these kids get bigger and bigger every year!)
Erin
Creating & Teaching
hahahaha you're to funny!!!! I CAN'T wait to move to fifth!!! If I was moved to 1st I'd loose all of my hair {what's left of it after teaching middle school}.
Such cute pics from your get together {on Hadar's page}!
You'll be fabulous wherever you end up!
β€ Mor Zrihen from…
A Teacher's Treasure
Teaching Treasures Shop
Fingers crossed for you.
I was an assistant in 5th grade math once, after student teaching. I had to turn the other way when a student had a question, so the teacher would see them first. The math was that hard. I had to pretend to get a lot of tissues.
Halle
Across the Hall in 2nd
I died laughing at starting your car with your own energy. I am still LOLing. I am pretty sure my car flies through the darkness to school on my coffee filled energy with the radio blaring for my tween kids and my BIG eyes bugged out with coffee. I just never thought about it until now.
I also dyed laughing at your reaction to the big P and the horrid 5th grade. Trust me no idea what they teach up there. I hate even walking through. I try to act brave and in charge but I hate it and it scares me.
I will let God know that I am on TEAM first for you. He may have His own agenda, but I can try.
love you and you still have to use rainbows and butterflies next year regardless. Never let the clip art and cute font die Kristin! NEVER!
First of all, you are hilarious. And I TOTALLY agree, I would need a tutor for that math!!!! I'm sure you will be safe just where you are! Just in case…you might want to start studying on those exponent fractions…
Michelle
Apples and ABC's
OMGoodness…I am watching the Ellen Show which I never get to see, and I am laughing at that out loud…and of course I am blogging at the same time. So I read this post at the same time I am laughing at Ellen and I laugh even harder at this. My 13 year old daughter is looking at me like I am crazy. I can just imagine you standing there with your principal having that conversation and you just say…"I understand".
Seriously though I hope it's not you! Good luck!
I just wanted to say that I enjoy the way you share your day with me……oh I meant us.
~Heather
http://1stgraderockss.blogspot.com/
First, I had leftover spaghetti for lunch.
Second, I so feel the same about 5th grade! A few years ago, I finished my Masters degree in reading. It was then that I discovered that this made me eligible to teach Kindergarten through 12th grade in my state. Ugh! In all my 19 years, I have only taught Pre-K, K, 1st and 2nd. I couldn't even imagine myself in ANY intermediate grade, middle school students FRIGHTEN ME, and I get nothing accomplished in a high school classroom because I would just want to joke around with them (they have a great sense of humor).
So every year, when we get our intent letters, I always mark that I will remain in the position that I am currently teaching. I do not want to give them any opportunity to change my grade level.
Hope it all works out for you. Maybe someone else will retire, leave, marry a millionaire and move to some exotic island. I will pray for all of the above for you.
Happy Blogging!
Ann
Oh Wowza! I hate those encounters….it seems like I have had those like almost every year for the past few other than last year….."Tara, I'm moving you to 3rd….Tara, you're looping with your kids to 4th….." and then the other day I had my letter of intent….which btw we just have to sign and turn in to our secretary….anywho, I thought I would be fresh and told my P that I was choosing the last option….(it was a 1 year leave…I was just kidding)…then he said "that's no way for a future 5th grade teacher to talk." Wait….WHAT?!?!?! I'm pretty sure he was just trying to get my blood pressure up….so girl I feel your pain!!! Hang in there….I have had several recent things go wrong and am having to pray and let it go as well….easier said than done:/ Praying for you and know you will be amazing no matter where you end up!!!
4th Grade Frolics
We are also looking at losing a first grade teacher. We aren't sure where the teacher would go. However, I completely understand your fears. I actually just came to first grade from fifth and sixth. I spent ten years looping at the fifth/sixth grade level. Whew. I loved my kiddos. I did! I just needed a change and I LOVE first grade. Breathe deep and if for some reason it is you, message me. I have tons of ideas that I will share! Optimistically, all of you will get to stay somehow!!!
I love 5th grade!! I want to go back!!
Wait, the first day back? Really? At least your coffee set in so you didn't jump to say YES!
Lots of good vibes heading your way Kristin so you can stay in Little People Land! π
Ξ΅ΡΠ· Christy & Tammy Ξ΅ΡΠ·
Try to keep positive! I also do not want to teach above first grade, second graders can be taller than me, I'm 5' tall. My principal told me last year I coul never leave first or retire, so I feel pretty good about staying in first. Our wonderful legislature took away seniority in AZ, they love teachers so much! So my 33 years get me nowhere!
First off…I read a bunch of teacher blogs and yours is my favorite because you share and write about life beyond teaching. And also because we seem to have a similar sense of humor.
Last year I returned to the teaching world after a hiatus (for these things I call my children; ). I didn't want full time and found a perfect gig at my daughters' school. Half time reading remediation. Pros: half time, no report cards, conferences, paperwork. I worked with pretty much all the grades which was neither a pro or con since b.c. (before children) I taught first grade for years and then was asked by my principal to teach the gifted kids. I did that for 4 years. A different grade level each day. I found I loved it and the challenge. But I digress… cons half time teaching: half a teacher's salary.
Anyway, at the end of the year, the principal told me she felt pretty strongly that my job was secure. And she told me even if someone had to be let go, she would base her decision on performance not seniority. (Hinting that I had done a good job and had nothing to worry about). Well, that principal wound up retiring. And the new principal –knowing nothing about any of the reading specialists (there were 9 of us) based her decision on seniority which meant I was canned. Oh, and she let me know over the phone. While I was on my vacation. In Canada.
I felt so crummy. I knew it had nothing to do with me, but it still felt horrible. I've never been fired before and that's kind of how it felt.
Now I am still half time, but at a different school than where my daughters are and that makes life tricky.
All this is to let you know that I understand that ucky feeling in the pit of your stomach.
I hope you don't have to change. But having seen your attitude and sense of humor in your writing, I am confident your fifth graders would adore you. Fifth graders love teachers who can joke with them and talk to them on their level. Yes, there is more drama sometimes…and you'd need a great air Freshener…and maybe some great platform heels …but you would rock it.
Fingers crossed…and worried because you haven't updated.
Please excuse typos…am typing on my phone at the airport on the way back from spring break. And I had airport food for lunch.
Ok, Kristin, here's the deal. IF they should try to move you, I am certain you have a future in reality tv. Let's think. I don't think the Hubs would approve of the Bachelerette. Here's what I'd like to see: a show where you do interventions for reality show stars who have decided that what they do with their lives is actually important. How bout it?
It looks like your kids had a better vacation then me!! I didn't go anywhere but my couch! OMG!! Going from 1st to 5th would be like a culture shock!! I will pray for your to stay in 1st! And if it happens to not go your way you know all of us in bloggy land will be here for you!! Hugs!
It's always scary when faced with something like this!! I've switched 3 times in 4 years! But no matter what happens, YOU'LL BE FINE!!!!!
β€Teri
A Cupcake for the Teacher
Oh Kristin – you just crack me up – and now that I've met you I can totally see your facial expressions during this time. I was totally laughing reading this. In our district they CAN NOT move you up more than 2 grade levels either direction it's in our contract. So they would have to shift a bunch of people around to fill that spot – not a first grade one…see what I mean. That is ONE thing I like about our contract. LOL The growth hormone thing had me cracking up too – you are right they would be taller than you.. :oD
Keep us posted on what happens. (( HUGS ))
Vicky
Traditions, Laughter and Happily Ever After
Noooooo! You can't go to 5 th grade!! 5th grade is jucky! Stay in first! Firsties are the best (said in my best Nacho Libre voice!)
Kerri B
Teacherbitsandbobs
I spent 7 years teaching K/1/2, mostly 1st. Then I moved to a new state. And the ONLY position open in the district where I moved was 5th. So I snatched it! I was scared. BUT… I liked it. A lot. Surprisingly! I stayed in 5th for 3 years and it was pretty awesome. The I spent three years in administration, which was definitely NOT awesome. I asked to be returned to the classroom, and I asked for FIRST grade. I missed it. I was ready for it again. But the six years away from my little friends WAS a GOOD thing. I came back to first grade "stuff" refreshed, and with a better understanding of what lies ahead for the little peeps. So, it as OK. And whatever happens to you, YOU will also be OK!
I had leftover meatballs and yummy fruit for lunch. π
That makes me sick to my stomach. We are all still waiting to hear where we will be. We've also spent many planning periods going over numbers and praying someone will offer to transfer or retire or something so we can all stay in first grade.
Rowdy in First Grade
Praying for you! God has a reason and a place for everything! You will be where he wants you and he will guide you through the journey! Sending prayers for God's guidance! (But I hope he picks 1st grade for you! You are soooo good at it!) π
Hugs!
Cheryl
Crayons and Curls
That just stinks. We had to sign letters of intent for the first time ever last month and this is the end of my 18th year. "Uh – I intend to stay put!" I didn't quite phrase it that way, but that's what I was thinking.
Our principal even had us fill out something along that line a few months ago. We had to answer some questions like if we're happy where we are, what would be a position we would be okay with, one that we would not want, etc. That got us stirred up for a few days.
Two thoughts:
#1 SURELY they won't put you with students who are almost eye to eye! I have a dear (throat clearing) boy who is taller than every other first grader and loves to remind them all.
#2 Why doesn't seniority factor into this? At my school low man on the totem pole gets the boot. This year I became the "senior" on our 3 gal team. Holla!
I think you will be safe. I'll send up my prayer for you also. School and system drama don't usually get rolling until the middle of May here and by July it's a runaway locomotive. Then NOTHING usually comes to pass!
Yikes, since I am on vacation I tried to be in the moment and not check blogs and look what I missed!!!! Crossing my fingers and toes for you that you get to stay in first. Driving your intent letter to the district office is crazy. We have to submit one but we just turn it in to the principal's box.
Jenn
Finally in First
I have been moved to a new grade three different times. This seems to come up at our school almost every year. If they have to move someone, they try to only move them one or two grades up or down. So that opening in fifth would be taken by someone from fourth, a third grade teacher would move up,etc and the first grade teacher would end up in second grade (where she would love it because it is a great grade to teach:the kids are still young enough to listen to you but old enough to work independently.) good luck to you! I am sure it will all work out.
I'm empathetic to you since I'm the first grade teacher that has to move this year too! UGH! The thought of it is overwhelming!!! Hugs & hope you don't have to move too!
I love your faith Kristin- even when it looks like things might get hard- you give it to Him. π
Hey- I read that you are doing A Purpose Driven Life. I'm going to look into that one! Ben and I are looking for a couples devotional to do in the evening after putting the boys to bed- any recommendations??
Prayers that you'll stay in first!!!
-Staci
Let's Teach Something