Sending off my kindergartners...

I had a difficult time returning to work this year.  Leaving behind your first born (or any child, I'm sure) is not only a heart-wrenching journey but also one that forces you to relinquish control.  If you know me, control is not something I give away easily, and change is not something I readily accept.  However this process is made much easier if have you a meaningful reason for beginning another journey outside of the home.  I am, and will always be a mommy first and teacher second, but I do love my job.  If I have to leave my little boy to pursue a second income, I am happy to say I love being a teacher.

Like I said, this was a difficult beginning to the school year.  I was transitioning into the role of being a working mommy, and my class was adjusting to being in kindergarten.  I got what the school calls "returning children", meaning that they attended the school as pre-kindergartners.  I will be the first to say this wasn't your average kindergarten class.  These were the brightest group of 5 year olds I have ever met... not only could most of them add and subtract, but could do so mentally and without any type of manipulative!  Their questions during science astounded me and I spent half my time trying to bulk up my  lessons to appease their inquisitive natures.  They noticed everything and caught on quickly.  They taught me that no matter your age, you are never to young to be exposed to higher level thinking and reasoning.  They also reminded me what I missed about being a teacher; the hugs throughout the day, accidentally getting called "mommy", the smiles I see after the "lightbulb" goes off in their little heads, seeing them apply a concept that you just taught, and most importantly, the realization that you have made a difference (no matter how small) in the life of a child.

I spoke at my first kindergarten graduation today and I surprised myself by getting choked up and nostalgic.  I wish this group the best for their coming years and I am proud to have taught them!