We Made it Through!
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
We made it!
Just a few short months ago, it felt like we were knee deep in test prep. We were analyzing data, pulling small groups, offering tutoring, reviewing skills, encouraging students, and doing everything we could to prepare them for state testing. Now that testing season is behind us, I can finally take a deep breath and reflect. And honestly? It feels really good.
This year, our school saw increases in achievement across all tested areas, including ELA/Reading, Math, Science, Social Studies, and our End-of-Course assessments. As educators, we know that scores are not the only measure of success, but it is incredibly rewarding when the hard work of students and teachers is reflected in the results. There were many days throughout the year when it felt like there was more to do than time allowed. There were lessons to plan, interventions to provide, data to analyze, and students who needed encouragement. Like many of you, I often found myself wondering if we were doing enough. The results reminded me of something important.
The work matters.
The tutoring sessions matter.
The small groups matter.
The conversations matter.
The extra effort matters.
And sometimes, even when we cannot see it immediately, our students are growing right in front of us.
Officially on Summer Break!
Now I am officially on summer break, and while I am looking forward to sleeping a little later and having a slower pace, I know myself well enough to know that I will not completely step away from learning. I will still be reading books, attending trainings, participating in webinars, and looking for ways to continue growing professionally. One thing I have always believed is that great teachers never stop learning. There is always a new strategy to discover, a new perspective to consider, or a new skill to develop. That does not mean I will be working all summer. Not even close.
Rest Is Important Too
I recently returned from an amazing trip to Walt Disney World with my family, and we had such a wonderful time together. The memories, laughter, and break from our normal routines were exactly what we needed. We also have a few more trips planned before summer comes to an end, and I am looking forward to every one of them. As much as I value professional growth, I also recognize that summer is a season of recovery. Teaching requires so much of us emotionally, mentally, and physically. Summer gives us an opportunity to recharge, reconnect with our families, pursue our interests, and simply rest.
And that rest is not a luxury.
It is necessary.
To My Fellow Teachers
If you are reading this while enjoying your summer break, I hope you take time for yourself. Read the book. Take the trip. Sleep in. Spend time with the people you love. Learn something new if you want to, but do not feel guilty for resting too. You earned it. At the same time, I know many of us are already thinking ahead to next school year. It seems to be part of being a teacher. Even when we are relaxing, we are often thinking about ways to help our students succeed. One thing I have learned over the years is that even a little reading and skill practice over the summer can make a difference when students return in the fall. That is one reason I created a summer reading resource that helps students continue practicing important ELA skills while they are away from school.
If you would like to take a look, you can find it here:
Whether your students use a resource, read a good book, or simply spend time exploring the world around them, I hope they return refreshed and ready for a new year of learning.
Thank you for all you do for your students every single day. I hope your summer is filled with joy, relaxation, and moments that remind you of who you are outside of the classroom. We worked hard this year. Now it is time to enjoy the rewards.
In this together,
Nicky B. 💗
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