Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway

Last week, I began working on a "project." An opportunity presented itself for me to apply for a position with my current school district for a newly created position. The position would be for the Elementary Technology Specialist. This person would be available to teach professional development, help teachers implement the newly learned technology in their classes, and attend conferences to learn more about technology and what our schools might need. I wrestled with the decision to apply or not, but after discussing it with Paul and the girls, went ahead and sent in my resume and application letter. The 2nd step in the process was to create an example lesson to present and answer a series of questions during an interview. I put a lot of work and thought into the lesson and have been working on it a lot the past week.

I enjoy teaching so very, very much, but I'm excited about the opportunity to expand my knowledge in the technology field.

I interviewed on Tuesday with my own principal, Mr. Oldham, and the other 4 principals in the district, as well as the technology director and the curriculum director.

Yesterday, Mr. Oldham, came by and offered me the position. I accepted. I will be working at the Elementary 1/2 the time and will still be teaching one class at the new high school next year: a video technology and broadcasting class.

Not teaching full time is bittersweet for me. The students have enriched my life in ways they will never, ever know. This has been a difficult week for me in a sense because they are signing up for 08-09 classes in my English classes. I've already shed some tears, and hugs, but have also shared moments of joy with them, as well. They, too, are my family. :)

It's definitely a win-win for me. I am able to still work with my high school family and mentors, still have contact with students in class, and will be able to expand my technology knowledge and use my CIS degree in a much different way.

I'm incredibly nervous and scared about this new position, but I know that doors open and others close for many reasons that are never immediately known to us. Here's to new challenges and new opportunities!

"Change is the most constant thing about life."