How do you say good-bye to your home? For 13 years, my teaching home was in this place. For the last 4 years, my new position has allowed me visits. As this year is winding down, I am gearing up to return to the classroom, but not at my home. A new home is heading my way. I am beyond excited to have the opportunity to be in the classroom again. There is nothing like it. I am beyond excited to work in a school that I’ve admired for 17 years.
But, that good-bye.
17 years, 4 principals, 2 classrooms and an office, countless students, amazing teachers. In 17 years you see a lot. You learn a lot. You’ll miss a lot. This school is where my teaching career began. It was the epicenter of the ebb and flow of my life.
It’s where I was when I got engaged and my class threw me a tropical wedding shower ahead of my destination wedding.
It’s where I was when my father was ill and my amazing teaching friends held me up and got me through the days.
It’s where I was when my life fell apart and an intervention was held to whip me into shape.
It’s where I was when I had my daughter and one of my students talked to her in my belly every single day.
It’s where I was, sitting before my principal, thanking each one for taking a chance on me. To hire me, to trust me, to give me the opportunity to reach beyond my classroom in so many ways.
It’s where I was, year after year. Every accomplishment celebrated. Every struggle supported. The people that I have worked with all these years, while many have come and gone, have shaped me to be the teacher that I am today. Every single one. They’re my family.
So as this year ends, look around. Find those peeps that helped you do you. They’re everywhere. Schools are just like that. They’re filled with the people that laugh with you, cry with you, push you, and support you.
Go hug them. Go thank them. They’re your family.
Live, Love, Teach 
What a beautiful tribute to Spaulding. It is a very special place…..which is made special by the people who inhabit it now, in the past, and in the future. Change is scary but it is so necessary for our growth. You have had a lot of it, kid. You’ll be great. Oh, the places you’ll go! Now, I’m off to hug some peeps 🙂
So true Kim! Our work family holds a very special place in our hearts. They are the ones we spend so much of our time with.
I cried when I left GPHS after only four years. I can’t imagine 17! I know it’s tough, but man… Your new school is so lucky to have you. Love you! 💕
This speaks to me so much….I feel all your feels and will be hugging my peeps as well! Change is scary, but change is great….you will love your new experiences!