A Hard Good-bye

This week is so bittersweet. I am forever grateful for this year’s experiences, from my wonderful principal to my amazing class. My room parents were the best I have ever had, my classroom was outfitted with state-of-the-art technology and had ample space, and my teammates became great friends. I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to join this fabulous Bobcat family. I am holding on tight to the memories, sad knowing a new day lies ahead.
As I have said in previous posts, my principal is retiring. I left my old school that I taught at for 6 years (the only school I had taught at) to work for Mrs. T. Her experienced allowed her to be more relaxed which enabled me to have autonomy in the classroom. I missed teaching the way I taught best and being acknowledged for a job well done- even though it was not the cookie cutter way. Mrs. T. told me one day, “You’re one of the best. You’re a fine leader. I need to do a better job at providing opportunities for you to hone your skills.” What principal do you know of that would say that? I had always been told, I  had to seek opportunities to lead. But, Mrs. T. knew she had to create the opportunities in order for me to seize them. She held true to her promise. I learned so much about myself as a teacher and a leader this year, all because of someone willing to help me grow. That is a gift I cannot repay.

My students wanted to say goodbye to Mrs. T. with a gift . We created a tree of thanks sprinkled with apples of appreciation. Some comments were funny 🙂 But, most were heart-felt and well thought out. Mrs. T. of course about cried reading the student’s sweet notes.

This last week is going to run me through a few boxes of Kleenex! The memories made this journey are wayyy worth it. WHAT AN A+ YEAR!!!!

THANK YOU to MRS. T. for believing in me and pushing me to become a better teacher leader!
THANK YOU to my wonderful kids who remind me why I became a teacher!
THANK YOU to my student’s parents for your endless support!
THANK YOU to my Bobcat family for taking me in as one of your own!

What gifts have your students given the principal?
How have your students shown their thankfulness?

About the author, Gretchen

I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.

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