Post 14

            As my teaching school year is coming to a close, of course I am excited; however, I am a bit sad to see my students move onto 6^th grade. Since our school ends at 5^th grade, I will not get to see them in the hallways next year. As you learned during my presentation, I made a decision to loop up to 5^th grade with these students. At the time of making this decision, I had to weigh my options. Did I want to remain a 4^th grade teacher, or did I want to become a 5^th grade teacher? Both options had their pros and cons, but this was an opportunity for personal growth. It gave me time to reevaluate my life, and where it was going. At the same time, it helped me realize that I would be the person who decides.

            I hate feeling stuck because I feel that I do not have a choice. It is a feeling that I have had for the past 2 years. As some of you know, I have been in a long distance relationship for about 3 ½ years. My girlfriend lives in Altoona (where we are both from). She is a tenured high school physics teacher, who has recently earned her principal certification. Obviously, I am an elementary school teacher in York, who is about halfway finished with my school counseling certification. We have discussed our future many times during discussions on the phone, and when we are together. These discussions are encouraging, but at times, frustrating.

            I feel stuck because I truly want to be back in Altoona with my girlfriend and family. In order for me to be back in Altoona, I would have to resign from my current job. Then, I would try to find a job in Altoona. The problem is that I have been sending my application into Altoona (and surrounding areas) ever since I have been back in PA 3 years ago. There are honestly no openings, and this year they are closing down 2 elementary schools. Since I wouldn’t be able to teach, I have considered alternative jobs. I could do some landscaping, work at a daycare, or whatever for a year, but then what? Another alternative is finishing my graduate degree back in Altoona. If I choose this path, I would probably loose credits that I have already earned from Millersville, and I would have to pay for my own schooling (which I do not do now because Lincoln Charter pays for it).

            Realistically though, why would I give up a teaching job that I have now? Why would I leave a job that I am passionate for? Why would I leave a job where I am serving the most purpose? These questions are often asked by my girlfriend when I start discussing my options. Sometimes change comes with risks. These risks often keep a person from changing their current life. I vividly remember making the choice to resign from my teaching position in South Carolina. I did not have any plan whatsoever. I basically told myself that enough is enough. I left SC and went back to Altoona to live with my mom. About 2 months later, I landed the job that I have today.

            I truly want to take this leap again. After having this course, I have come to realize that self exploration and discovery is vital to my growth as an individual. Questioning and reflecting are two key components to my growth. At the same time, questioning and reflecting only takes me so far. It is the choices and risks I take that further my development as an individual.

Corey, G. & Corey, M. S. (2010). Your Body and Wellness. In Brooks/Cole (9^th edition), I Never Knew I Had a Choice (106-131). Belmont, CA: Brooks/Cole, Cengage Learning.