Year One... Done.

Classroom packed up and ready to be cleaned over the summer.

My first full year of teaching has come to an end. I am sad to say goodbye to my students, but happy to welcome summer vacation and a sorely needed recharging. Reflecting on the year I feel proud about what I have been able to achieve, but restless in the knowledge that no matter how much I learn, this is a lifelong endeavour with few clear answers.

I have witnessed some amazing growth in my students. I don't share those stories publicly, but it is the best part of this profession.

In terms of the physical space and the focus of my writing, things have really blossomed. I have achieved most of what I set out to do for the school year. Some of the achievements I am most proud of is the whiteboard transformation, setting up my own interactive whiteboard, and establishing a classroom blog. Other changes that I didn't blog prominently about include setting up a bank of six computers, a new digital projector, a document camera, a guided groups table, and wireless internet (all thanks to a supportive administration and parent council).  With hard work, great support, and a little luck I was able to transform a technologically barren space into something that is more my style and in line with what I think a 21st century classroom should look like.

There are lots of improvements yet to consider; I will share those new goals over the course of the summer.

For now, it's time to feel good about what's been achieved and recharge.