If you don't have anything nice to say...

.... say nothing at all.

There has been some serious frustrations lately. I think this comes from continusly comparing this year/position to my past teaching years. I shouldn't do that because this is so different. I feel like a new teacher again. I hate that, I spent so many years growing as an educator. I had so many people pouring into me as a growing teacher in my previous 5 years, now I feel like a performing monkey. Those monkeys that are trained to steal money from pockets, or slam little symbols together. Have a mental picture now? Good.

Let me talk about some positives.

Students are hilarious. I love getting to see them be a little more out of the students now that we are in week 4. I enjoy my live classes and how the kids use emoji-cons for all types of things. I am teaching stories I like (except Don Quixote... dumb) and that must be getting the kids excited.

I love that when my kids were sick (we have had RSV, Ear Infection, some Virus not named, and Strep Throat) in the last three weeks, I was able to be at home with them and still WORK. I did use recordings once, but sat there while kids watched and asked questions.

The mute button. Every 'brick and mortar' teacher should be envious of this live class tool.

I know things will get better, and this is such a learning curve in which I wasn't prepared. I thought I would have more 'down time' but I find myself constantly accessible. I have missed lunch three times... crazy I know.

I can't wait for PD next week. Just being around other teachers will be such a breath of fresh air. Teachers, we just get each other. Plus, we can compare monkey symbols.

Change

Change.

I hate change. I am a creature of habit and I love STRUCTURE. This job has tested my patience with how much change has come down the pipes. Schedules, leaders, courses, expectations. My head is spinning.

You know what hasn't changed? My love of students. I got into my first live class and it all came running back to me. I made a hashtag for my students to use and follow. I posted shoutouts and allowed them to follow me on social media. We are bonding, we are becoming a community.

I love the kids.

I hate change.

#BurmanInsight

Rough Beginning

Just a heads up, this post might sound very dreary. It really isn't, I am very excited to have students next week, but this have been a whirlwind as we prepare to welcome the students.

Our Principal resigned on Wednesday.

Yes, that is right, 5 days until kiddos log in for class.

I am not going to dwell on the facts, rumors, or my opinions. I wish her the best and I am just going to push forward and prepare. While in limbo we have two ladies stepping up to the plate to fill in as our administrators. They have been amazing and doing everything they can to help us all stay upbeat and be prepared.

After about 5 meetings and getting access to my classes, things are falling into place! I am 100% finished with my training, I logged almost 50 hours of training. (K12 and INTASS) It really wasn't fun, but it was a necessary evil.

I now have a head set so I can speak and be heard while leading class or logging in for meetings. I feel so fancy. I am working on my courses and getting my syllabus perfect. I am also working on a "Hello, I am Mrs. Burman" video. It is going to be epic. Don't worry I will share!

I love buying school supplies, but my new supplies are kitchen rugs, hand towels, and a mug. Those are the things I need to feel calm these days. That and my essential oils. I just bought some 'Joy' to keep me super excited.

I would also like to mention a post coming about my work space. We don't have an office space so I have a desk in the dining/kitchen. My husband is currently making me a desk to work for our space and my needs. Things will be coming together for that later next week!