You might think it was difficult returning from the amazing Washington Recognition Week and get back to my “normal” routine at King MIddle School. And in many ways, you would be right. But not for the reasons that you might imagine. My students welcomed me back with a poster and congratulatory notes. Teachers couldn’t wait to stop by my room to get details. The district and school posted information about my week on the websites. In my brain, I completely understand that this experience is designed to focus on one teacher from each state as a representative of excellent teaching of that state, but there are times when this is a challenge.
As I headed into King at 7:15 am the following Monday, I looked around to find educators who kept an extra eye on my students while I was absent. Several made the logistical arrangements that allowed my students to watch me in the White House live via the internet. They kept parents informed and plans for our Celebration of Learning moving ahead. Earlier in the process, others had written recommendations for my portfolio, given me feedback on my writing, and listened to me practice the oral presentation that I delivered as a finalist, which ultimately led to my selection as the 2014 Maine Teacher of the Year. And all around me at King and in Maine are teachers who dedicate each day to providing students with a safe, nurturing and challenging academic experience. So as the “Why me?” thought continues to circulate in my mind, I want to share with everyone that it was a privilege to represent you and the teaching profession. While events such as these are extended to a few of us each year, the 54 honorees realize that the attention and publicity offers us the opportunity and responsibility to elevate the teaching profession. After spending a week with the 53 other State Teachers of the Year, and the newly selected National Teacher of the Year, Sean McComb, I can assure you that during the remainder of our year of service we all cherish and relish the chance to shine a light on teachers and teaching!
As I headed into King at 7:15 am the following Monday, I looked around to find educators who kept an extra eye on my students while I was absent. Several made the logistical arrangements that allowed my students to watch me in the White House live via the internet. They kept parents informed and plans for our Celebration of Learning moving ahead. Earlier in the process, others had written recommendations for my portfolio, given me feedback on my writing, and listened to me practice the oral presentation that I delivered as a finalist, which ultimately led to my selection as the 2014 Maine Teacher of the Year. And all around me at King and in Maine are teachers who dedicate each day to providing students with a safe, nurturing and challenging academic experience. So as the “Why me?” thought continues to circulate in my mind, I want to share with everyone that it was a privilege to represent you and the teaching profession. While events such as these are extended to a few of us each year, the 54 honorees realize that the attention and publicity offers us the opportunity and responsibility to elevate the teaching profession. After spending a week with the 53 other State Teachers of the Year, and the newly selected National Teacher of the Year, Sean McComb, I can assure you that during the remainder of our year of service we all cherish and relish the chance to shine a light on teachers and teaching!