I hear this question frequently, often followed by, “teacher, author, consultant, webmaster . . . how do you do it all?” My response has always been that I love every bit of it and none of it seems like work.
However, last spring I finally realized that I can’t do everything and do it well… even if I do love my work! Over the last year, I’ve been struggling with how to be a great classroom teacher while continuing to develop high-quality materials to share on my Teaching Resources site. I had a terrific class, and we had a great year together. But my time away from the classroom was stressful as I tried to juggle everything else in my life.
So after 29 years of teaching, it’s with mixed-feelings that I’ve decide to take a year off from the classroom to devote quality time to other projects. Fortunately, I’m eligible for retirement on September 1st so I don’t have to take an unpaid leave of absence. I'm not even thinking of this as a retirement, though, because I’ll be returning to the classroom for the 2011-2012 school year.
I know that I’ve made the right decision. but that doesn’t mean it’s an easy one. In my heart and soul, I’m a teacher and I’ll always be a teacher. I love writing books and developing lessons, but what I enjoy most is taking those materials into the classroom and using them with kids. But this year I’ll have to rely on other teachers to keep me in touch with the classroom.
Someone asked me the other day, “So what will you do with all your free time after you retire?” I just laughed because I know that I’ll be busier than ever! I might be officially “retired” from the classroom, but I’m certainly not retiring as an educator! Maybe I’ll get a little more sleep, but not much more! In fact, please don’t congratulate me on my retirement because I’m viewing this as a leave of absence. I’ll definitely be back in the classroom!
Congratulations!This is a big change to make and I wish you all the best.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations Laura. I'm sure you are going to miss the classroom alot, but you should consider the wonderful effects you have any so many classrooms all around the world through your website, books and workshops. You're students have all benefited from your experience and wisdom. Be strong and hang in there, my friend. We are looking forward to all your work product for next year!
ReplyDeleteLaura, I hope you actually do something really different for a bit...take a trip someplace you've always wanted to go....exhale from the whole profession for a bit and then come back recharged with your fabulous ideas. May you know the joy of experiencing a new phase of life and the wonder of it all!
ReplyDeleteBest Wishes! Susan
I agree with the 2nd comment. You are making a difference in the life of many children through all of the wonderful resources you contribute. Thanks for all that you do!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on making in difference in so many lives!
ReplyDeleteLaura--I took an self-funded leave of absence a number of years ago and I found it was the best thing I ever did! It rejuvenated me and showed me what was really important in life--family, friends and your health.
ReplyDeleteTake this wonderful opportunity to do what YOU want to do. Enjoy yourself and congratulations for taking this big step.
Marjan Glavac
I'm sure that you will miss the teaching. But just remember that there are others along with me that will be using your techniques and strategies in there own classroom. You have made such a difference and deserve a little break. Can't wait to see what you have going on with more resources. Good Luck!
ReplyDeleteI wish you a year of creative genius and thank you for allowing us to take a piece of you into our classrooms. Your resources are just wonderful. I love teaching also but there is something about the summer when schedules and life is so unscheduled. Sitting on the porch having coffee and actually reading the paper is a gift. Enjoy each moment!
ReplyDeleteIs it bad that I am excited to see what you will create with all this extra time? I absolutely adore you and am so thankful for your support and resources. I was a teacher at Brentwood and took everything I learned from NC to a new turnaround school in Chicago! I think you might be happy to know that your resources are working great here also! So enjoy this time, but hurry back to the career that you love and that you are great at!!! You're one in a million!
ReplyDeleteYou are making us all better teachers. Thanks.
ReplyDeleteThanks for everyone's support and kind words! I worried that if I left the classroom, I might lose my credibility as a "real" classroom teacher. Hopefully, other teachers can help me stay in touch with the realities of the classroom until I return in a year!
ReplyDeleteI am getting ready to go back into the classroom after 4 years as an instructional coach. I think I am more excited than the first time I taught which was 38 years ago! With all the wonderful information that I have had the privilege of learning I think my teaching should be better than ever! Many of the new things I will use will be items I have gleaned from your website. I am so glad that you are not "abandoning me" as I will truly need you this year! Be blessed in you new decision. You will be awesome!
ReplyDeleteThat must have been a very difficult decision. I know I am very grateful for all the material you make available for teachers. There have been so many useful teaching tools I have gotten from you. I hope you will continue in the new school year!
ReplyDeleteThanks for everything!
Once a teacher, always a teacher. Take the time you need, and I think it's a great plan. I will not be at all surprised that you come back better than ever! Just don't leave us in the lurch LOL.
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ReplyDeleteAwwww hugs Laura! You will be excellent at anything you do! You have helped and inspired so many teachers, admin and many more. We love you and wish you the best!!!
ReplyDeleteTiffany