Storytime:
Two years ago, I left my job as a middle school classroom teacher of 12 years to step into an instructional coaching position in another district.
In my first year, I learned a lot and worked with some A+ people. Towards the end of the year, I started teaching sixth, seventh, and eighth grade ELA classes because their teacher resigned and the children needed a teacher. (Education struggle)
Last school year was a bit different for many reasons, but I was asked to teach 7th and 8th grade ELA AND perform duties of an instructional coach. (At a K-8 school) 😏 That definitely wasn't the perfect situation and not one I would have chosen for myself, but I accepted. In that acceptance was a perfect blessing. I was able to teach and learn from some of the best 7th and 8th grade scholars in the U.S.A. Facts!
Approaching year 3, I was offered an 11 month position as an ELA teacher only. Wait. What? You need me back in the classroom fulltime? At that point, I was not pleased. I didn't see myself growing. I'd taught ELA for 13 years and needed something different. I didn't look for another job but a few people knew that I wasn't looking forward to the upcoming school year.
Another opportunity came and I was offered a position back in my district teaching first grade. First grade? Me? Why? I had convinced myself that I did not want to be in the classroom anyone, BUT who wouldn't want to grow under the leadership of T. Williams. Hmmmmm. This could also give me more hands on teaching experience in lower elementary, which I lacked.
So, I accepted the position. (unsure, unsure, unsure, unsure) Honestly, I said WT# about a million times and questioned my decision by the hour. I was so unsure that I didn't even tell anyone. I had not convinced myself that I had made the right decision, so no public congratulations or job updates for me.
It is October 4, and I can confidently say that being a first grade teacher has been the perfect blessing. The littles are so impressionable. They love to learn, love each other, and love ME!
I have some pretty great co-workers, too.
The other day in class I chanted, "Thaaaaaaaaank you, Jesus!" because number 5 answered a question correctly. Then, five more littles repeated me and sang "Thaaaaaank you, Jesus!" in all types of pitches. I said to myself, Lord, I hope I don't get myself in trouble. 🤪
Moral of the story: There are perfect blessings in most situations. How do you choose to view your situation?
What is your perfectly imperfect career blessing?