Monday felt busy from the start. I had my typical duties, along with completing IEP assessments for several students with upcoming meetings. The day was steady but hectic, and I could feel anxiety creeping in. I pushed through, and before leaving for the day, I checked emails and volunteered to make copies for a committee. That moment led to an important realization: if I volunteer for something, I need to back up my willingness with knowledge and follow-through. Everyone is busy, and we are all doing the best we can. As a leader, I need to demonstrate confidence and preparedness.
After work, I picked up my girls and took them to the newly opened Raising Cane’s near UCF. They were training employees and offering free meals to local staff, which made it a fun and unexpected treat. Later that evening, I headed home and finished writing an IEP for a student.
Tuesday brought another realization. In a general education setting, there are additional layers when determining goals, especially when collaborating with teachers on independent functioning and social-emotional skills. In a separate classroom, collaboration happens within a smaller, more contained community. I followed my regular schedule and also worked with a student in an alternate setting due to discipline. By the afternoon, the student was overwhelmed by distractions and needed a break, and I had to accept that as the right decision.
I finished my schedule for the day and worked with my mentee until 5:00 while waiting for a committee meeting. I volunteered to fulfill a role that was needed so the group could meet. Afterward, I went to my parents’ house since my sister was in town, and we spent time together until about 9:30.
By Wednesday, I was tired. I spent most of the day testing a student on his state assessment. Since he was testing through recess, we took time to go outside and visit the four goats at our school, which brought a sense of calm and joy to an otherwise intense day. I completed testing with another student and then worked on entering IEP information before heading out to dinner with my siblings, staying out until almost 9:00.
Thursday was the state math test. It went smoothly and was very productive. After testing, I analyzed the data to determine next steps. Afternoon schedules were disrupted due to testing, making it difficult to see students as recess and specials like PE, art, and music were adjusted. When I came home, my sister stopped by, and we talked until nearly 9:00.
On Friday, I didn’t arrive at school until 12:15 because I needed to take both of my girls to the orthodontist. Once I arrived, I had immediate tasks to complete, but the afternoon turned out to be very productive. I spent time encouraging colleagues and sharing recent experiences to help explain the why behind some changes I’ve been navigating. More importantly, I made intentional choices to meet pressing needs over routine responsibilities. I ended the day helping my mentee prepare for her formal, and we laughed so hard we were nearly delirious.
This week was busy but fruitful, stressful but meaningful, and challenging yet rewarding. I would not trade any of it for the family I have created at this school. We all bring our own gifts and quirks, but together we create a masterpiece—one that gives both students and staff a voice and a sense of purpose.
Comments
Post a Comment