And so it begins...again...

On June 14, 2006, I finally got a much needed rest after a long year of teaching. Spending the summer months sleeping in and just unwinding was a lot of fun. Sadly, all good things must come to an end. This past week was the teacher orientation for my school as we welcomed twenty three new teachers and prepared for some of the new things that awaited us for the new school year. Good news is that we have new computers. Bad news is that we seem to have some new forms of micro management coming towards us. As a result, I am sure I will be venting about micromanagement at different times in the school year.

But another thought plagues my mind this year. Two years ago I knew nothing about the kids I was going to teach and was like an island unto myself. Last year, I knew a number of students and could at least rely on some of them to help keep a few of the new kids in line. This year, I find myself again almost alone. There are a couple students left that I know, but the new challenge of dealing with a large group of unknowns is rather appealing. In a sense, I have a new challenge in front of me. I also plan to introduce a few new things into the mix of my teaching, while at the same time continuing to do the same things as before.

So as the 1444 students arrive, the brave 105 faculty prepare to defend their sanity as we teach another year of our courses. Wish us luck on this future endeavor. We will need all the help we can get. And for all you parents out there, remember, the teacher is not out to get your kids. We aim to challenge them and get them to push themselves to the extreme. So have some faith in us and know that we know what we are doing.