I understand the objections to Columbus Day, but the second Monday in October has always been the perfect time for a three-day weekend and the break from school it offers. The beginning of the year is hectic and hard, full of requirement and angst. By the time we reach the fifth week, an extra day off is good for everyone, and traditionally we come back refreshed and ready for the second half of the quarter.
Not this year. Students had the day, but teachers were required to participate in professional learning. Oh, the powers that be did it right-- they offered lots of options and a mix of online and face to face opportunities. We chose a session on mindfulness for educators, both because it sounded good, and it was at the elementary school at the top of the hill. Walking to work and not having to there until 8:30 almost seemed like a holiday in itself.
The session was good-- focused on self-care and reconnecting with the passion that brought us all to teaching-- but it was conducted by two former teachers, people who had left the classroom because their journey took them elsewhere. I certainly appreciated the time to breathe, meditate on gratitude, and mindfully savor a single raisin, but I didn't leave recharged.
Maybe Veteran's Day?
Not this year. Students had the day, but teachers were required to participate in professional learning. Oh, the powers that be did it right-- they offered lots of options and a mix of online and face to face opportunities. We chose a session on mindfulness for educators, both because it sounded good, and it was at the elementary school at the top of the hill. Walking to work and not having to there until 8:30 almost seemed like a holiday in itself.
The session was good-- focused on self-care and reconnecting with the passion that brought us all to teaching-- but it was conducted by two former teachers, people who had left the classroom because their journey took them elsewhere. I certainly appreciated the time to breathe, meditate on gratitude, and mindfully savor a single raisin, but I didn't leave recharged.
Maybe Veteran's Day?
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