For me, teaching has never been just a job. It is a part of who I am. I feel like God placed me in this position for a reason although I never can seem to figure out why. I honestly don't know when it happened, but there was a point in my life when I transformed from a normal person into a teacher. I was one of those kids who knew they were going to be a teacher early on, because I enjoyed school and had some really great teachers. Maybe that's when it all began...who knows. I do know that education started to take over my life (and thinking) around the same time I got married and entered my final years of college prior to teaching. Not long after, on the same day that my husband and I celebrated our second anniversary and about a week after graduation, I got offered my first teaching position. Coincidence? I like to think not. You see, intertwined in this life of mine is my husband. He's a youth minister, so I think he kind of gets what teaching is like. Fortunately, he understands that I view teaching as my "ministry" through my example/love for my students, and he listens (or at least pretends to listen) to my school ramblings night after night.
Anyways, my first teaching position was teaching fourth grade in a rural district near the town we live. I was blessed with many learning experiences and great friends; unfortunately, the commute to and from school was a bit much for a soon to be growing family. Switching school districts was sad, but I knew it had to happen eventually. So...I interviewed for a couple of positions in town, and that's how I came to work in the district I'm in today!* Now, I have a two year old AND a two month old. I thought teaching before having my own kids was stressful, but adding in those bundles of joy has made it a tad more challenging. Nonetheless, being a mommy never ceases to amaze and stretch me beyond what I thought possible especially when balancing it with being a minister's wife, teacher, and everything else.
Well, that pretty much sums up the past eight years of my life. I look forward to introducing you to more of me (and my family) as I reveal tid-bits about my life, dreams, and teaching from time to time. Until next time, this is me.
Love ya!
Heidi
*This will be my seventh year of teaching. I am teaching fifth grade this year, but I have also taught a year of first and five years of fourth. I'm nervous about moving up a grade but excited to start this new adventure!
