2019 Intentions

1. Read more books. My apartment is filled with hundreds of books (moving them into a new apartment every year really sucks!), but I don't read as many as I'd like. My list of books to read has literally dozens of titles on it, and I'd like to make a dent in that list this year. Reading 12 books for fun is my main goal. Secondarily, I won't let myself purchase a new book until I've completed another on my list.

2. Eat more vegetables. Ultimately, I'd like to work toward the Whole30 diet someday, but with my love for refined carbs and sugar I know that's not a realistic goal for right now. I want to start by eating vegetables at school for lunch-- not junk food! I also want to replace my heavy carb & sugar snacks with fruit and vegetables instead. This is definitely going to take some time and commitment, but I want to see some improvement in my diet this year, which will hopefully lead to feeling better and losing some weight.

3. Work as hard as I need to, not as hard as I can. Begin a committed teacher, I find myself working extremely hard at school, but my students aren't necessarily performing any better. I want to take a step back from the amount of work I do by working smarter not harder.

4. Push myself out of my comfort zone more. Whether it's class activities, restaurants, or hanging out with friends, I want to open myself to new opportunities and go out of my comfort zone by trying new things and being open to meeting new people.

5. Do more with less. I finally came to the realization that I shop too much and have too much stuff. I did a pretty intense clean out over break, but I am looking forward to shopping less and with more intention and keeping my apartment organized.

November

It's hard for me to believe, let alone type, that I'm already 1/4 of the way into my third year teaching. I've done so much at school in these first few months of the year, I'm somewhat surprised that I still maintain almost 7 hours of sleep a night. Teaching is a challenging career, and my third year doing it has presented new challenges, like teaching an AP class. However, I feel invigorated by the new opportunities (roses), and by some of the challenges (thorns).

Not roses, but these dahlias in Austria were the most beautiful I've ever seen!

Some of my roses for 2017-2018 thus far include:

The quest for college pennants. Throughout the first few months of the year, I've reached out to dozens of colleges in an attempt to get promotional materials and pennants to display at my school. My school is working on creating more of a college and career culture, so I'm trying to help by acquiring materials to help assist in the development of that culture. It's really repetitive to send out all these emails, but it's exciting when I get the packages in my mailbox. I've received pennants from schools all over the country, and some I hang in my room, and others are hung in the halls to "decorate" my school and promote a college-going culture among our students.

My Passion Project: creating a high school transition program for my district. I'm working with my school's instructional technology integrator (and good friend) to work on a creating a high school transition program for middle school students who will come to our school. We're really excited to lead something positive for our school and district! It's been a lot of work so far, but I'm sure it will be worth it in the end. At the very least, it's opened my eyes to some of the challenges that administrators face, which has influenced my views on what I should get a Masters degree in-- Curriculum and Instruction, Administration, History...

I'm a Center for the Study of the American Constitution Fellow! This fall I get to spend time studying the text and origins of the U.S. Constitution and share what I learn with my colleagues and students. The Constitution is such an important and fascinating document, though it is ambiguous, that I really enjoy learning about it from experts. As a proud social studies nerd, this is an amazing honor and I'm counting down the days until I'm back in Madison studying the Constitution with other teachers from around the state.

However, with each rose must always come thorns.

Hall Duty. I thought I would really like having hall duty during one of my free periods this year, but it's proven to be quite challenging. Since I am a teacher in the hall, asking students if they have a pass, I tend to get roped into situations I don't really enjoy-- like confrontational students. It's emotionally draining, but I do feel like it's teaching me a lot about how to communicate more effectively with more challenging students. In this position I've truly learned that respect is earned, and being a teacher does not mean that I've "earned" anything. It's reminded me to live by the saying "you catch more bees with honey," and treat everyone how I would want to be treated. So, even though it isn't my dream job, I am growing as a teacher and person in a way that I wouldn't have without having this duty.

Sometimes I feel like a hamster on a wheel-- running for my life, yet going nowhere. Some days I'm enveloped with frustration (with myself, my students, administration, parents, society...), and others I'm on cloud nine, after a lesson goes well, or I accomplish a lot on my to-do list. If I've learned anything as a teacher, it's that it's extremely easy to get bogged down with the negative. But I can't live in a negative world; it's not healthy physically, mentally, or emotionally. The metaphorical roses in my life must outnumber the metaphorical thorns. I'm thankful for awesome and uplifting coworkers, and for my family's love and support. Finally, I'm thankful for the students who I've taught and on whom I've had a positive impact. I can't make the thorns go away altogether, but I can shift my focus back on the beautiful roses.

AP World History

Last month I spent a week at the AP World History Summer Institute, and it was pretty amazing, though exhausting! It was held at Northwestern University's downtown Chicago campus, just a few blocks from Lake Michigan to the East, and a few blocks off of Michigan Avenue in River North to the West. 

The institute ran eight hours each day, for four days, so needless to say, it was quite tiring. However, I learned so much about AP World History, and met some awesome people. We covered what the exam would look like, what is expected of the course structure, and of course, what is expected of the students to be successful on the AP exam in May.

Teaching an AP class is something I have wanted to do since I took my first AP class in high school. However, I didn't think that I would be able to teach an AP course, let alone one that I actually enjoy, until a bit later in my career. Being given the opportunity to teach high level students in a rigorous environment with high expectations is just what I would love to do as a social studies teacher! However, I am aware of the gravity of teaching a AP World History. I'm both nervous and excited about it, and I have already done a lot of preparation for the school year. Here is what I have done to attempt to prepare for the school year!

1. Read a lot. One of my biggest concerns of teaching AP World is that it requires me to have so much more knowledge of World History. To combat my fear of not knowing enough, I've been reading the textbook, Review Book, and AMSCO Book. While I don't feel like an expert just yet, I am pretty confident that I know enough to help my students succeed in Period 1. I've also read "fun" books for AP World, including A History of the World in 6 Glasses, and I just started An Edible History of the World. I highly recommend these books.

2. Joined the "AP World History Teachers" Facebook Group. I stumbled upon this Facebook group, and let me tell you, I am so glad I did. The group provides excellent support for new teachers, and I've learned so much by reading through posts, questions, and resources that people have shared. 

3. Talked to other AP teachers at my school. Another major fear I had was that if my students weren't successful on the AP exam, it would reflect poorly on me, and then I would face repercussions from administration. While I doubt that would actually happen after my first year of teaching the course, I still had that (somewhat irrational) fear. Discussing these fears with a fellow AP teacher helped a lot. She assured me that my position won't be in jeopardy if I don't have a high passage rate, as our school's overall passage rate isn't super high anyway. She advised me to teach the students to be prepared for college expectations, not for an AP test in May, and I will be very successful.

3 Great Things About My First Week Off

Cutest pic ever (source)

I've been out of school for about a week and a half, and let me just say, that it has not been dull. Yes, I get to sleep past 5 am (thank you!!!), but I've actually done a lot so far.

1. I got sunburned at Erin Hills. I know this in itself isn't good, but getting sunburned at Erin Hills means I got to go to one of the US Open practice days, spend time with my dad, and enjoy several hours in the sun. I've never been to a golf tournament before, so it was really cool to be immersed in that experience. The course was beautiful, with Holy Hill peaking above the trees in the distance. I can also see why people like to golf (you get to be outside for hours, ride golf carts, wear cute outfits, and enjoy nice weather), and why it's special to actually be at a tournament, rather than watching it on TV. The sunburn sucked, and now it's a really weird looking tan, but definitely worth it! Big thanks to my dad for taking me!

Me at my favorite place-- the Merch Tent (pre-sunburn obviously)

2. I spent time with my grandpas for their birthdays. My grandpas share the same birthday four years apart, which is super awesome. I got to spend time with both of them last week, which probably wouldn't have been possible if I was still in school. I love talking to my grandpas about their lives and childhoods. As I get older, I value my time with them so much more, and am grateful they are both here with me today.

3. I'm planning a trip to Europe!!! The first weekend after school let out, a couple teacher friends and I got together and planned a two week trip to Europe for August! I am so excited-- we're going to the Netherlands, Germany, Czech Republic and Austria.

3 Things I Learned This Year

I finished my second year teaching! Though this school year was challenging, I think back at all of the opportunities I've been given and the connections I've made, and feel satisfied.

Last year was a whirlwind-- it was stressful, exhausting, exhilarating, and fun. I honestly remember very little from last year, though, other than frantically making (and changing) lesson plans every night and weekend. It was so much work, but ultimately I feel accomplished as a teacher.

I've learned so much over the last two years, but because this year actually didn't feel like I was constantly in the middle of a tornado, I feel that I can reflect on this year with much more clarity.

Below are three things that I've learned in my second year teaching at Central--

1. I sought out like-minded educators in the building. My first year teaching was so overwhelming that I didn't get to be as social as I would have liked. However, with a year under my belt, and more confidence, I found some people who have similar mindsets and passions, which has made my experience here so much better. They inspire me to be better and remind me why I became a teacher.

2. I said YES to new opportunities. I was definitely a "yes" person this year, and I'm really really happy I did it. First, I said YES to co-advising National Honor Society, then I joined a few book studies, and took COMP training. I said OMG YES to several Professional Development Travel opportunities that changed my life. And finally, I said YES to teaching an AP class next school year. Though some people advise against saying yes to too much, I am so happy I did. My students also pushed me to try new things. I worked on making curriculum more relevant to students, and will continue to do so. Ultimately, I became a teacher to educate students, and I hope that all of the opportunities I take advantage of will help me be a better one.

3. I took care of myself. After my stressful first year (everyone's is stressful, right?), I wanted to make sure that I got some "me" time this school year also. I am a history nerd through and through, so my idea of a good read for pleasure is something like Guns, Germs and Steel. I tried to read for pleasure more this school year, and also make time to watch my fave reality shows once in a while. I also spent a lot more time with my family, which is awesome when you're an adult! Don't tell them, but my parents are actually pretty cool.

All in all, I am pleased with year two at Central High School, and though I don't want summer to go by too fast, I am looking forward to the new challenges and opportunities that next year brings!

3 Good Things Outside of School

Last week was a very difficult one in my personal life. School stress, for the first time, took a backseat to life stress. However, school didn't disappear-- it's responsibilities remained, the school year was coming to a close, but not before it ramped up to the busiest time of the entire year.

I started this blog as a way to remind myself how wonderfully inspiring and challenging it is to be a teacher. Those three things reminded me that each day is filled with good-- as is each student who sits in my classroom. But when my life at home took a downturn, I had to turn my positive focus to that. I have to remind myself of the beautiful, unique and formidable my own life is.

1. I bought a bike! It's exactly what I wanted, including the price. I bought an almost-new Electra Townie from a rummage sale, and I couldn't be happier with it. I've taken it on a few rides already, and am loving it. The only problem is where I'm going to store it. I don't want to keep it at my parents' house full-time, but I'm not sure where I can put it in my apartment. #nogarageproblems

2. I got my state park pass for 2017 (and was able to remove all traces of my old one on my windshield). One thing I've committed to doing more is taking advantage of all the beauty Wisconsin has to offer. So many people seem to think Wisco is a boring state, but it's actually pretty amazing, if you're willing to see the beauty. So far, I went to Point Beach State Park, but am planning on going somewhere this weekend-- possibly my trusty Lapham Peak or Pike's Lake, but perhaps Lions Den Gorge. Either way, I can't wait to spend more time off the couch, out of the classroom, and in nature.

3. I bought like 5 books for AP World History (School-related, I know, but I'm just so excited #nerd). I'm teaching AP World History next year, and am super super excited about it. I can't wait to challenge myself and students to be better and learn more. This is really nerdy, but I would like to write the entire year's curriculum by the end of the summer, and I think I can do it!

Summer Plans

I think this goes without saying, but I am so excited for summer! I enjoy the much-needed mental break from academics, as well as the chance to improve my own life by traveling and taking time for myself.

Some of my travel plans for this summer include:
- Detroit, MI to visit Chris when he's working there
- New York, NY for a vacation with Chris
- Philadelphia, PA-- a quick trip to learn some American history!
- Washington D.C. for a few summer institutes to learn more American history!
- Eagle River, WI to spend a week up at the family cottage on the water
- Kansas City, MO to visit Chris when he is home

Those are my big plans for this summer! I don't include too many Wisconsin plans/trips, but I'm sure there will be a few day and weekend trips in places around the state (I'd really love to go to Door County and Lake Superior this year!). I am so excited to stay busy by traveling and experiencing more of what our great country has to offer.

When I'm not traveling this summer, I hope to do several things around my apartment and to improve myself.
- Start listing some of my lesson plans and worksheets on Teachers Pay Teachers
- Organize all of the bins full of stuff in my closet
- Purge my place of all of the stuff I don't need (my apartment is small, and I really need to start living more minimally)
- Decorate my living space into something that fits my style
- Read at least a few of the books that have been on my summer reading lists over the years
- Plan a few units of my courses, including my new AP class
- Get-- and ride-- a bike around the city!!

And those are some of the "improvement" things I hope to accomplish this summer! Looking forward to a relaxing and productive summer!