My Final Wish...as a Classroom teacher.

As the start of the new school year came and went, I sit in my empty and quiet office and begin the arduous   journey back from the depths of major depression. I have one class this year...PTP/L...that meets only once a week for 40 minutes. Gone are the AP Chemistry students, who have made my time at school challenging and inspiring at the same time...Gone are the Honors Chemistry students, who keep me young at heart and focused on improving my teaching practices....Gone are the Leadership Students ('06) who I began my career with and helped to mold my view on education today...Gone are all the other students who have blessed my life by allowing me to be a piece of theirs.

So here I sit...about to present my final wish (while I still consider myself a classroom teacher) to any and all who will take the time to read. So here it goes.

There's a great framework in educational development today called the rigor/relevance framework. Some people know it as quadrant D framework. Basically the best learning takes place in lessons or activities that are high in rigor and high in relevance. DUH! My final wish sponges off of this framework...(Sort of...I guess...well maybe not so much, but I thought of it while I was staring at the framework...ANYWAY)

I wish that all of you pursue what will make your life worth living even if the journey is difficult. All of you who I've had the privilege of calling my student made my life worth living, more enjoyable more than you can possibly know. I loved my job. I can honestly say, I was doing what I was put on the planet to do...My challenge to you is to find that in your life. Whatever it may be, where ever it takes you, no matter who says you can't do it. Pursue that thing that makes you feel like waking up every morning and thankful every time you go to sleep (well almost everytime). Go after it, with all your being.

Finally, know that I believe in you. I am very grateful to have been a part of you daily life for a year or two or three. It has definitely been an experience that I will keep with me. My journey changes a little, but I think I'll find my place once again. Hopefully influencing the educational system to improve.