End of the Year...

Friday was our last day, technically, the kids last day was Thursday, however, Friday was a teacher day to get things cleaned up and files done!  I have to say that after leaving the school this morning, I got a little sad.  In fact, I got a lot of sad!  I not only am terrified about not finding a position for next year, but, and more importantly, I'm going to miss this amazing school, these amazing teachers and most of all, these amazing kids!  I'm not sure what the future has in store for me, however, I do know that these kids are in good hands at Timothy Ball.  I've never met a more connected group of people who want to help and rally around each other.  A lot of the schools I've been to have been quite the opposite.  This school just has the atmosphere of friendship and that is what I think I'll miss most of all.  I want to be part of that.  Part of something that will allow me to be creative, yet, have the people behind me to help me when I get stuck!  Believe me, this year I had a few "getting stuck" moments!!!

I'm so thankful for this past year and I wouldn't have changed it for anything. I'm so proud of the kids.  Both the kindergarten and 4th grade kids!  Its amazing to see a student learn and "get it!"  I had quite a few of those moments this year and let me tell you, I think I cried 100 times! I think I not only grew as a teacher, but a I grew as a mother and overall person.  So many of our kids are having to go through things that I can't even imagine having to go through at that age, yet they seem to come to school with a good attitude and a drive to be better.  I hope that the kiddos learned that this year.  I know that I was only with them for 4 1/2 months, however, that time was spent teaching and teaching to the BEST of my ability.  I have definitely grown and will continue to do so over the summer.  To be a good teacher, you have to teach beyond the text book.  To be a great teacher, you have to teach beyond the textbook, engage the kids, and most importantly, know your kids.  Not every class will be the same, so we as teachers have a duty to the kids we teach to know who they are and know what they like and dislike.  We would be doing them a disservice to not do those things.

So here's to the summer!  I'm going to do some tutoring and spend time with my little Max.  He is getting so big and the time is flying by!  Keep me in your thoughts and prayers as a lot of the summer will be applying and reapplying for positions in and around my area.  Have an amazing summer!  I will miss all of you kiddos and I can't wait to hear and see some of the things you will be doing in the future!

I love you all!

Mrs. Bushnell