Day 87: Getting that Piece of Paper

I still don’t know how to feel. It was exciting getting the email. It was exciting paying the $160 to the State of Michigan. It was really exciting printing out two copies from my home printer (apparently $160 doesn’t get you thick parchment nowadays). And now it is exciting to announce that this thirty-something man-child is going to be teaching the youth of tomorrow. God help us all.

For the past three years, I have been on the sidelines, filling in where needed, teaching math part-time. It was important work, and I’ve loved most seconds of it. But now it’s real. I will soon, one way or another, have my own classroom with my own set of students whose mathematical and English education is my responsibility. In the words of Marty McFly: “That’s heavy, Doc.”

I’ve been waiting for this day for about two and a half years now, since I decided that teaching was in my future. It’s been a long road with many twists and a lot of words written. I have served next to many mentors that were generous enough to take me under their wing. I am forever grateful to all of you and to all of my former teachers that inspired me. And also all of those that helped me and supported me along the way. Thank you all. It’s been a wonderful trip.

If you asked me five years ago where I would be today, I wouldn’t of had a clue. My mind was lost in other places and other people. There was very little focus for what I wanted for myself. The path that I have chosen has helped me grow in so many ways that I couldn’t foresee. It’s been a wonderful blessing and has taught me that I am still able to surprise myself.

I am officially a Secondary Teacher for Math and English in the State of Michigan. That is exciting, scary, joyful, and daunting. That is too many emotions that they all muddle together. But I am calm. Tomorrow I have another interview for a full-time math position. My next adventure starts now.

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Author Note #1: I chose a profession in which I have to get up at 5:30 every morning. What the hell was I thinking?

Author Note #2: But I also have the option of pizza on Fridays. So...