Thursday, December 17, 2009

It's That Time of Year

Ugh! While it's a wonderful time of year with the holidays, cookies, presents, and cozy time spent indoors, an announcement after work reminded me that this is the time of year for some other less pleasant things as well.

Namely, the talk of layoffs.

Our district has decided to raise the class sizes in K-3 classes from 20 to 25, meaning that each elementary will lose around 4 teachers. I have even lower status in this district than in my district last year, so I'm not sure what to think. My adviser today tried to be reassuring, but it didn't exactly help (though I know she meant well).

It's funny, because I was feeling so stressed this morning, and had nightmares all night, but didn't connect with why until she brought up the potential layoffs. Then I connected the dots.

There's nothing to do besides make sure my paperwork is in order and keep an open ear for future news. Layoffs will be in March again, but I'm not sure when I'll know for sure if I should start looking for a new job.

But....I just need to breathe out this stress and in the holiday cheer. It's a bit stressful on that front too, especially with trying to get presents for my students' parents made and wrapped in time for them to be taken home, but it is a lot of fun doing so much art with the kids. I love the ornaments they're making this year, and they are having a blast painting and glittering and gluing. This is the only time this year, besides during our official art class, that we've done anything purely for creativity's sake, and it's fun. We might do some math today, but all in all, it'll be a low key day at work.

The great thing about kids is you can always count on them to raise your spirits and distract you from the stresses of life. Fingers crossed that they work their magic today!


(One of my lovely ornaments that we made this week)

3 comments:

Gretchen said...

"The great thing about kids is you can always count on them to raise your spirits and distract you from the stresses of life."

So, SO true! That's sort of the double-edged sword, isn't it, since that's exactly who you'll be missing if you have to leave. *sigh* I hate this kind of situation.
I totally feel your pain, but I know you'll keep doing your best. Eventually you'll get to a place where you have more senority, but until then, don't lose heart! Let the joys of the kids feed your soul, as you said.
Good luck!

Jean said...

Addy, I hope you have a wonderful holiday season, and that the time with friends and family will serve as a pleasant distraction. Your school is lucky to have you, and whatever happens, your talent and passion will lead you in the right direction!

All the best to you!

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