I know. You are probably wondering where the heck I have been for the past two years. Well... I really don't have a good excuse other than I was kind of in a transitional phase of my educational adventure. You might say that I was morphing from the caterpillar to the butterfly. Now that I think about it....that means I was resting comfortably for two years in that cocoon (just a bit longer than the butterfly...RIGHT!).
Anyway...now I feel as if I have burst free from that comfortable slumber to a "beautiful butterfly." Well, I don't know about beautiful...but at least I feel like I have my wings.
For those of you who don't know my story, it began two years ago when I left the classroom to become an academic coach. I had twenty years of classroom experience under my belt and I believed I was ready for the change and the demands of my new position. I am now beginning my third year as a coach and, boy oh boy, has it been an adventure so far. Hopefully, I will get to share some of my learning experiences with you as I venture back into the blogging community.
As educators, each and every day we encounter challenges. I myself had one presented to me just this week. Although I cannot share the details, I will admit that it "threw me for a loop." As a coach, I often help others work through their challenges on a daily basis. However, when I was posed with my personal challenge, I thought to myself "Who is there for the Academic Coach when they are faced with great challenges?" So I did exactly as I tell my teachers..."Take some time to reflect on your problem, think it completely through, consider all acceptable options and then finally it's time for your response."
This is MY response!
I have been told by many on my faculty that I am a great motivator. I inspire others to be even better than they already are and to always be positive. I go to great lengths to remind all teachers, support staff, and even administrators that we do make a difference in the lives of children. I believe it's my time as an educator and an advocate for both children and teachers to share my message on a greater scale. I'm hoping that by doing this, I will be able to inspire more educators to tackle everyday challenges that we face in the classroom and in our schools with a positive attitude and the confidence that they are doing what is right for our children to be successful.
I hope you will follow me as my educational journey continues. My plan is to sprinkle a little "food for thought" into your day. My post may be as simple as a message to "fill your bucket" as an educator or possibly a question to make you think deeper. You are more than welcome to respond or not but just your visit to my blog is a blessing to me.
Until next time...
Respectfully,
Academic Ann
