The first half of my 2nd year has been full of highs and lows. It managed to drag on and feel like it would never end while simultaneously rushing by me!
I moved down to 3rd grade this year. I went back early to set up my new classroom and ended up getting weathered in the village instead of making it back to Anchorage for district in-service! It gave me a much needed extra couple of days to work in my room while I participated in our back to school meetings via video conference.
Unfortunately, the year started off with multiple tragedies. Three high school seniors committed suicide between August and November, plus a stepfather of one of those boys. We've spent a good bit of time and energy on trauma response. The village was emotionally exhausted trying to heal.
I ended up with strep throat the first weekend of November. I can't remember the last time I felt so physically terrible. A week later, my roommate came down with it. The house, and my classroom, got a good bit of disinfecting after that!
My little learners and I have been blessed this year, as well. At the end of the summer I posted on Facebook about getting sponsors for monthly chapter books from our Scholastic book orders. Not only did every child in my class get sponsored, but people donated money beyond that for whatever they might need during the year as well as others purchasing items off our class Amazon wish list. My grandmother sewed pillowcases for all of my students as well as two quilts for the top graduates this year. My uncle sent each of my students a pack of colored pencils plus some science experiment kits.
Luckily, all of the stars and planets aligned for my trip home for Christmas this time around! I got on a flight out of the village that went directly to Bethel instead of stopping at two other villages. After a planned 8 hour layover and the best takeout food I've had there, we were on the Alaska jet to Anchorage. I had about an hour there before my plane took off for Denver. For the first time ever, I managed to sleep for that entire 5 hour flight! I spent about 2 hours in Denver before heading to Houston for an hour then finally home. I can only hope my return to Hooper Bay is as smooth!!
It's hard to believe I'm halfway through my 2nd year out here. My students made some amazing growth on their math benchmark tests. There are some positive programs starting at the school with our new administration. I'm working with 4th and 5th grade students during after-school tutoring 2-3 days a week, and they are so excited to come work with me.
I plan on enjoying my short break with my family and relaxing a bit. The spring semester will be here before I know it!
