End of the school year

I really lucked out this spring and took on a long-term substitute teaching job at the high school. I really liked the kids and the subject was OK. But what won me over is that the kids never made me feel like a "sub." I enjoyed going to work. And now that we are approaching "Finals Week" I'm sad to see them go. I won't be returning to them in the fall as two new instructors have been hired, but I promised them that I would visit as often as possible. And besides, I will still be working for the school district as I finish my final year as an "undergrad" in my new BAs and will see my old students all year long.

I have truly improved as an educator over last year. I had few "bad days" this year. Feedback from teachers was also much better this time around. I will continue to take classes on methodology; Pima Community College has a few good courses I can't get via Cochise College.

If it weren't for the backpacking trip in July and Erin's visit in June, I would have continued with summer school this year, attempting what for me are the hard subjects: math and physical science. I also know, however, that I need a break from the stress and pressure to do well. It's been a week since my finals and I've already finished reviewing two more books for Amazon, played around with CS4 and done other personal readings without a deadline.

Apache Middle School in town is closing. A ceremony was held yesterday. Many of the teachers will move to the high school, teach elsewhere or take on "sub" jobs during the year. I liked the staff there.

And although I love reading about history, I also enjoy English and literature. The high school is looking for three English teachers this fall. Argh! I'm a year behind of being accredited so I missed my mark there, but the old principal was right: if I wanted to stay in the school district, I should pursue a degree in English (as opposed to social studies). My least favorite subject in English is studying Shakespeare, and "British Literature" is a requirement for all English majors.

I can handle one more year of being in school as I've enjoyed learning. I wish now I had this kind of time when I was younger, but small kids and definitely the military were two major barriers. (The army pushes its soldiers to get a college education but it doesn't push its soldiers to study so hard to earn all As and take the time off to do well.) Thank goodness Kevin is supportive of me and my studies. Together we earn enough to be comfortable.

Regardless, this will be a fun-packed summer with lots to do! Erin is flying here in three weeks and major housecleaning is in order. I must also find time to do a few practice backpacking trips, which is excuse enough for me to backpack the Rincons in June sometime as I've never been up Mica Mountain. That peak is part of the Saguaro National Park and dogs aren't allowed. Afterall, the dogs would make the horses nervous...