The first spirit day was "80's workout" day (see picture!). Obviously I LOVED that theme because I'm always playing 80's music in my classroom anyway! It was especially fun to dress up with some of the other teachers and so many students.
On Tuesday my Bubbie and Zayde (grandparents) and mom all visited my classroom. It was incredible to have them sitting beside my kids, watching me do what I love. Some of my male students walked over to my Zayde, who was sporting his WWII Veteran hat, and gave him a firm handshake and "thank you". (I WAS BEAMING WITH PRIDE!) And thanks to my mom the photographer, I finally have some pictures of ME in my classroom! We had so much fun and my mom even answered some questions my kids asked about me. They learned that I was a tough teenager, but a great student and athlete!
Pause for a teeny-tiny-little-itsy-bitsy moment of truth specifically for those who simply cannot imagine it is all "so easy" for me:
I know I am a positive person, but I want to be very honest. I absolutely love my job, specifically the incredible kids whose lives I am able to impact. But it is THE HARDEST THING I have ever done. I work 12+ hour days and still feel behind all the time. And because I want my kids to know I support them inside AND outside of the classroom, I go to two or three sporting games per week to cheer them on. All together I'd say I am teaching, grading, or dealing with student events 14 hours per day, and it is NOT EASY in the least. In the classroom, I know my kids are learning but it is difficult to meet every need of each student as well as teach an exciting and rigorous lesson. I often feel that I am choosing between "fun" and "challenge", so finding the balance is definitely tough. Overall what I'm trying to say is I would NOT give up this opportunity for the world, but it is not "rainbows and sunshine" 100% of the time. I just happen to be the type of person who believes sulking helps nobody, while positivity and enthusiasm seems to get me (and others) moving in the right direction. That is why I try to highlight the very best of the experience in this blog. Of course I do it for all of you, but it truly is therapeutic for me to see the positive impact I made at the end of each week. So there you have it!
Nevertheless, it was another powerful week with visitors who brightened my day and an amazing homecoming game where I was able to drive around the football field with two of my students (the elected Freshmen "Lord" and "Lady") seated in a BMW convertible during half time. I hope one day I can afford a car like this! (see picture)
Thank you so much for taking the time to read about my teaching life. It is so incredible to hear how my experience has touched such a variety of friends and family. I hope if you have any questions about Teach For America or my life in Vegas you will ask them as I am always happy to discuss!
All My Best,
Danielle (Ms. Landau)
