Firsts.

To everything in life there is a first.  Your first word, your first step, first day of school, first day on the new job.  The first time.  And no matter how many firsts you have been through, the new first is always the worst.  Doing something new can be a most challenging and exhilarating experience.  Terrifying, nerve wracking, frustrating, exciting and totally unpredictable.  

This is my first year of teaching school.  It's the first, but it won't be the last.  And because it isn't the last, I know that I can only continue to grow.  This blog will document my first year of teaching.  The ups, the downs, the new ideas and new knowledge that I gain.  This isn't my classroom blog, this isn't for my students or for my parents.  It's for me, it's for you.  It's for new, terrified teachers everywhere.  

I'm teaching fourth grade this year.  I never dreamed that I would end up working for this district.  I always assumed that I would begin my career somewhere else.  However, this is a first.  Now that I am part of this district, my alliances have changed.  I think that a person needs to feel pride for where they are.  I refuse to start out in this district with a pre-constructed bias and a bad attitude.  There are changes here, oh yes, big ones.  However, I am beginning to realize the power and influence of this district.  There are amazing things happening.  Programs, goals, data digs.  We will make a difference in these children's lives.  

First classroom.  It's finally set up.  Pictures are soon to come. I am trying to go for sort of a camping theme.  It won't be extreme, but enough to be fun.  I am finishing up tomorrow, continuing to put up all of the required posters, pocket charts, and bulletin board stuff.  

First Back to School Night.   Sure, only about half of my 26 students showed up, but I loved seeing them and getting to know them and their family's.  I can't wait to begin teaching them!  

First time in a school like this.  My school was built in the 70's in what they call an 'open classroom environment'.  The school is shaped as a large dome.  We have no actually walls.  Rather, large cubicle like dividers separating all of the rooms, no doors.  They all form in a large circle with the library in the middle.  I love it.  It feels so comfortable and friendly.  

First day of school is coming up.  I'll let you all know how it goes....  yikes!  

Wish me luck!!  

-MISS TAYLOR