Bittersweet
the school day is over. My grades are all in. My students are now gone, at least from my teaching - when I next return on Monday to sign out, their year will be officially completed, although probably few will be here the next few days.
I probably could have left for Netroot Nation by midday. But then I would have missed one more opportunity to be with my students. This afternoon, after dismissal, some were offering hugs, many were offering thanks. A few former students stopped by yesterday and today to wish me well in my retirement.
In a few minutes I will get in my car and head for the airport, on my way to Netroots Nation. I look forward to that gathering.
But right now is bittersweet. I may never again be a classroom teacher. I will miss being with the students.
I will not again be a teacher in this building, which has been my home for 13 of the past 14 years. I have been saying goodbye to adult friends, including the cafeteria ladies and the security people.
It is right for me to take this retirement. I am ready for the next phase of my life, whatever that may be.
But I have some tears as well. The title is accurate - it is truly bittersweet.
Peace.
I probably could have left for Netroot Nation by midday. But then I would have missed one more opportunity to be with my students. This afternoon, after dismissal, some were offering hugs, many were offering thanks. A few former students stopped by yesterday and today to wish me well in my retirement.
In a few minutes I will get in my car and head for the airport, on my way to Netroots Nation. I look forward to that gathering.
But right now is bittersweet. I may never again be a classroom teacher. I will miss being with the students.
I will not again be a teacher in this building, which has been my home for 13 of the past 14 years. I have been saying goodbye to adult friends, including the cafeteria ladies and the security people.
It is right for me to take this retirement. I am ready for the next phase of my life, whatever that may be.
But I have some tears as well. The title is accurate - it is truly bittersweet.
Peace.