The end of the school year is typically a stressful time. Report cards need to be written, assessments need to be completed and final projects need to be turned in, and not necessarily in that order. Nevertheless, I have always had time to enjoy my students before we say goodbye on the last day of school. This year feels different. I feel rushed and more stressed than usual. Part of it is that I am just recovering from a very bad cold that kept me bed ridden for four days, the longest number of consecutive days I've ever missed school in 30 years of teaching. Another part of it is that the amount of things that need to be completed is greater this year than in previous years. Being in a school environment that is actively implementing new projects is exciting, but it can also be exhausting. As I finish assessments and the kids turn in final assignments, I am looking forward to our last week of school where we can slow things down just a bit and have some fun before we say goo...
This blog is a place to ruminate on the problems of teaching. If I am thinking thoughtfully, my posts will hopefully raise more questions than answers. By problematizing teaching we reflect on those questions that are constantly behind, in front, and at center of everything we do in the classroom. Feel free to comment. I'd love to hear what other teachers are thinking about on these and other issues. Cheers! Elisa