Last Day as a Resource TA

Jim and I

Today was the last inservice day of the year/ the last day of work before summer for staff.  For me and some others that were leaving Dimond, was the last day to step foot into Dimond.  Every one was scrambling about getting their rooms organized or cleaned up.  Teachers were getting their last grades in.

It took little time for me to get all of my stuff in a box, considering I do not have a classroom.  Although I did help a couple teachers pack up after I was done with my chores.  I gave away a handful of Thank You cards that I wrote sincerely in to some special staff members.  To be honest, I have never felt so emotional about leaving a job.

At the staff get together/BBQ, department chairs came up and recognized people who are leaving their department or Dimond.  This year there were a lot of staff leaving due to retirement, a change of career, or a change of life plans.  My boss, Jim Aronow, went up to talk about who was leaving our special education department.  When he spoke, he had me come up and sit next to him while he talked about me.  He said nicest things ANYONE has ever said about me.  My spirits were uplifted listening to his speech.  I could not stop smiling.  He then handed the mic over to me and for the first time ever, I wasn't super nervous to speak in front of a big group.  Maybe because I was so comfortable with the staff, who knows.  I think I did a great job being up there.  Usually, I am a nervous wreck speaking publicly.  Anyways, I was so proud of myself.  I could not thank Dimond enough.  I was showered with a batch of flowers(Thanks Dimond), a Kaladi Bros gift card(Thanks Jim), and a Nordstrom gift card(Thanks Nicolette).

Working at Dimond as a resource TA, has been such a blessing.  I spent a lot of my time assisting students and eased some teachers work loads.  I felt like a very important person in the classrooms.  I have seen many different teaching styles and now have a toolbox full of ideas that work and do not work in a classroom.  This job has definitely helped me figure out who I am and what I am good at, which is teaching.  I enjoyed this job very much and will never forget my experience.  Although, one day, when I have my own classroom, it will be a different ball game.  At least, I will have more knowledge of what goes about behind the scenes in the school system.  Teaching is a great profession and it makes me so happy to see how many people are passionate about it.  It is also so encouraging to hear teachers tell me that I will make a great teacher.  What a motiv!  Plus, it felt great hearing them say that I better be back to teach.  I know I will have a spot when I get my teaching certification.

I am set!  Thanks for the gifts!

I have met new teachers and rejoiced with former ones.  It has been great to have all of those people in my life.  Dimond is very special.  The camaraderie within the staff and students is so unique and give a positive feel in the environment.  I am hoping that I can come back as a teacher at Dimond High when I get all of my schooling done.  Right now I am projected to obtain my mathematics bachelor's fall of 2012, which is next fall.  So close!  After that, I plan on taking the Masters in Teaching program, which should take less than a year to finish.  I am so excited for this new journey in life, but then so sad to leave.  I have never felt so attached to a job.  I would see so many of the wonderful staff every weekday and now that is going to change.  I will surely miss my time giving back to Dimond :-(  At least I will still be coaching volleyball there.  Not totally detached :-)

Love, Gly