Starting a new career at my age has been quite an experience. I imagine this is how my kindergartners must feel. I'm a small fish in a big pond, overwhelmed by all that is new and all that is expected of me. But also excited to learn and grow every day! I truly love working at Dover, but some days it's all I can do to just make it through. But on the best days, I make a connection, even if it's just a tiny one. I see it in the little faces looking up at me. They get it! Something clicks and they suddenly understand exactly what I'm talking about. And I smile to myself because THIS, THIS is exactly why I teach. And I have realized that it's actually not much different than parenting, in the sense that I want to teach my kids to be the best they can be. I want them to put their fears aside and dream big! It's what I teach my own kids... and I'm so proud when I see them face their fears and really go for it!
Pretty cute huh? See how she keeps looking to the side of the stage? That's where I was sitting as the stage manager. That's how I see my role as teacher. Running the show but sitting to the side, proudly watching my kids 'go for it.' They know right where I am if they need me.
