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Week 35

 


Week 35: Presence, Perspective, and Purpose

Four weeks to go—finding strength, staying present, and remembering why it all matters.

Monday reminded me to expect the unexpected and to stand tall knowing we’ve got this—just four more weeks left. No matter what, honesty matters. While working with my students during their service minutes, I had a group that couldn’t stop giggling. It wasn’t exactly where I was energy-wise, but as teachers, we learn to meet students where they are—and sometimes that means leaning into the laughter.

In third grade, students are reviewing standards in preparation for FAST (Florida Assessment of Student Thinking) testing. I also saw a fifth grade teacher modify questions for a Standard-Based Unit Assessment, and it was such a great reminder of how small adjustments can make a big impact. I ended the day with an IEP meeting and conversations with colleagues that reminded me to keep my head up and stay focused on the bigger picture.

Tuesday was one of those days that changes you. What started as a normal morning quickly turned into something much heavier when I learned about the passing of a student connected to our school. There are no words for moments like that. As educators, we give so much of ourselves to our students, and it’s a reminder of how deeply we care.

What stayed with me most was the love and dedication my mentee poured into that child every single day. It reinforced something important—being present matters. The time we have with our students is a gift, and the impact we make lasts far beyond what we can see.

Wednesday helped me step back and reset. There is so much happening behind the scenes in education that we don’t always see or fully understand. It reminded me of the importance of trust and perspective. As a mentor, I also reflected on how powerful it is to simply listen. Sometimes people don’t need answers—they just need to be heard.

We also had a budget meeting, which highlighted how decisions at the state and county level directly impact our schools. It was a good reminder of how everything is connected. I took time to reset with my mentor as well—because growth often comes from reflection.

Thursday started with a fun and memorable phrase from a fifth grade teacher:
“Small to big, divide that pig. Big to small, multiply them all.”

Throughout the day, I moved from classroom to classroom, constantly adjusting and supporting wherever needed. If a student is absent, I stay and help others. That flexibility has become one of the most important parts of my role—just being available.

I also worked on IEP drafts, including one that took several hours due to the level of detail required. Along with that came updating support facilitator logs and preparing accommodation logs for teachers. It’s a lot, but it matters—because every piece of documentation helps ensure our students get what they need.

Friday gave me a chance to slow down. I rested, caught up on paperwork, and reflected on the year. I thought about the relationships I’ve built and the growth I’ve experienced—both the good and the uncomfortable.

At the end of it all, one thing is clear: no matter my role or title, I am an ESE teacher. I advocate, support, and collaborate to meet the needs of my students—one IEP goal at a time.

✨ Even on the hardest days, this work matters—and so do the moments we show up for our students.

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