Thursday, August 9, 2012

new chapter: fresh start



"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'" Jeremiah 29:11

I've been thinking about this blog post for awhile now.  It's been at least five months (if not two years) in the making, I just didn't know if or when it would happen.  But here we are... it's happening.

Last Thursday (August 2nd) was my last day at JB Hunt.  It was really hard to say goodbye to so many great people, but I know I made the right decision.  On Monday I began New Teacher Orientation with Bentonville Public Schools... I am officially back in the classroom!

And I really am so excited.  And.... nervous and anxious and really just trying to get all of my thoughts organized... But really just so excited.  And so thankful.  I miss math.  I can't wait to "nerd out" in front of about 150 kids.  

I actually started looking for a teaching position in February of this year.  There were a lot of doors opened - or at least doors I thought were open - that were closed before I could even make contact.  There were a lot of emails sent that never saw a reply.  A few "thanks but no thanks" were given.  I finally decided to apply for a few positions within the Bentonville school district mid-July.  Eight days after finishing my application I was offered a position to teach math at Bentonville High School.  Wow.  

I cannot express how supportive all of my coworkers and managers at JB Hunt were of this opportunity and transition.  It was incredible to see, and solidified even more that this is the right time for this transition, and that this school district is the place I am supposed to be.  When God decides to make His move... each piece falls perfectly into place.

This past week has been so weird.  There has been a lot of information to process.  My brain is officially on overload, and I don't see that lessening for quite awhile.  I just found out today exactly what classes I am teaching (ALGEBRA II - YESSSS) and that I have a classroom.  I thought I would be a "floating" teacher, but it looks like I will have a permanent home.  I am sure I will have a classroom makeover blog within the next couple of weeks. :)

I am so thankful for this opportunity.  For a fresh start.  When I left Saint Paul, I wasn't sure if I would ever teach again.  I am grateful for that experience, and have spent the past two years reflecting on my time there.  JB Hunt has given me a great real-world experience that I hope to convey to my students this year... and many years to come.  

So as always... stay tuned.  There will be more blogs coming!