As of the school year 2020-2021, I am into my 29th year of teaching English (Language Arts) to high school students, including the Advanced Placement Language and Composition course. in the largest school district in Kansas. Technically, I could retire in four years, but I don't see that or want that right now. I love my career and my connections with students are strong; just the thought of leaving them at this moment is not conceivable.
My school is TitIe I with a 90% free and reduced-price lunch population.
We also house all the students from the Children's Home, the Girl's home, and we have the largest special education population. Our faculty and staff are highly dedicated to our pupils. We leave mentally exhausted but watching them learn, succeed and prepare for a prosperous future is the "incentive pay" we desire.
I have held other roles (some are current) in our school and the district: Peer Consultant, Assessment Rater, Mentor, Peer Consultant Board Member, Mentor Trainer, Grant Writing Assessment grader, Building Committee, Cheer Coach, Paranormal Club Sponsor, Creative Writing and Cursive Writing Sponsor, Senior Class Sponsor, and AP Alignment Committee. I'm sure I have left off some, but I cannot seem to remember!
Outside of school, I am an adjunct at the local technical college as well as a volunteer for Metropolitan Ballet. Reading and writing are my passions and like many English teachers, my hope is to one day publish a fiction book. My outlet for stress is walking as much as I can for exercise and healthy eating habits (trying my best!)
On the last note: "Self-Care" has become an overused phrase but it is still relevant. You MUST take care of your mental and physical health. Balance your personal life first and then work. Family is forever. When you are happy at home, everything else falls into place. Take time to do things that are not school-related: movies, dinners, local events, or even relax at home and have a night participating in activities you enjoy. If you are constantly focused on your career, you will miss out on some precious moments that you cannot regain as well as teacher burnout.
If you are struggling or have a question, I may not be the expert but I can listen and offer some type of advice. Please feel free to drop me a message! [email protected]
Thank you for visiting!
