The Journey

We lost a staff member this week. She was 29, had cancer and a 16 month old baby. I must put family first. I was reminded that we only get one chance at life and I only get one chance to be with my family. One of my first graders looked at me this week and said "Mrs. Russell, I needed you". All my students needed me, but my work is coming to an end. Budget cuts will be announced on Tuesday. All first year teachers are being let go (I am a second year). My program is secure for one more year but will be no more at this time next year. All Vice Principals are being dismissed as well as all Literacy Coaches. Our IB coordinator will be half time. No more Spanish teachers. I have to move on. The workload will be unbearable and I will spend next year preparing my students for programs that will not be what they need. My heart breaks for them, but my Social Communications program is a sinking ship. I prayed for guidance and I guess I got it this week.

I am looking for positions in District 20. I am hoping to start interviewing over Spring Break. As Mr. Rogers said "In order for change to happen, you have to leave something behind". I leave behind the fact that I started a program and did a super job. I leave behind the fact that for two years I GOT to be with some wonderful children and make a difference in their lives. Please pray for me as I move on in this crazy journey.

Thinking Hard

Last week, at school, was alright. The kiddos were themselves and I had to hold a child for two hours one day. It's hard, but the next two days with that kiddo were beautiful. Still no word on the job situation, though I have been thinking and praying hard about it. I am seeing that the changes may not come until the summer. By then, it is too late to look for another position. I asked Becca what she thought I should do, as my family has to put up with me working so far away. Becca said "Mom, if you were closer, we could spend more time together". Enough said about that. I am looking in D20 and praying for guidance.

The most amazing thing happened on Saturday. Laura, Becca, and I went shopping and we had fun. That has NEVER happened and I know it may not happen again, but it was great. I wasn't feeling well, as I have yet another cold, but the time was priceless. We went to Kohl's looking for an outfit for Becca, as she has pictures to be taken at school, tomorrow. Laura wanted a haircut, so I told her she had to go with us and that we would get the haircut after Kohl's. Laura started looking at the clothes and I swear I saw her light up. She said "I think I need to dress a little more like a girl". The clouds parted and I heard angels singing. She, well I, bought four shirts and a pair of jeans. Go Laura. With the haircut she is going to look really cute. She told me that she has to think of what she is going to wear for her formal eight grade dance (she graduates and moves on to high school in May). That will be interesting. I don't want her to be something she's not. I love her just the way she is, but I think what thrilled me is that LAURA liked how she looked in those clothes. I could tell that Laura wanted to look nice. That filled my heart.

Well, today is President's day, so I have no school. Deb Harnly and I are off to a much needed girl lunch and trip to Goodwill. Yipee doo.

TTFN

One step at a time.

The last week was a little better. I sent an email to the principal at Discovery Canyon in D20. I was inquiring about a position there. I did not apply for it, but they sent my application straight to the upper administration of SPED in District 20. I am flattered, but it is bitter sweet. When I told one of my parents that I might be moving out of their district, her reply was "no worries, we will just choice to wherever you are". I am humbled by that.

We had a great weekend. I had class on Saturday. Only four more classes to go. Casey came over Saturday afternoon and Saturday night I went to a Temple Grandin movie party. I had a great time hanging out with other Special Ed teachers. Temple Grandin is a woman who has defied the odds of Autism. The HBO movie was her life story and I encourage everyone to watch it. It makes me very proud to serve my students. Who knows who and what they will become. I would like to think I am making a positive difference in their lives.

As I write this, we are hoping and praying for a snow day tomorrow. The girls and I want a day to just relax and be together. We didn't do the snow dance, but maybe we will get it anyway.

TTFN.