Slowly Exhaling

Every three years, our school goes through an accreditation process. It started today. Three years ago, it was a very rough 2 days. So it was with some reservations that I forced myself into work today. Seriously, SWEATING like a pig, to the point that when I got home, I changed my shirt (sorry if that’s TMI).

Anyway, it was for naught. A) this evaluator is not a fan of our previous evaluator, so she took what she said with a grain of salt. I could elaborate, I won’t. Let’s just say our meeting was therapeutic as well as informative. B) We had a very pleasant conversation. I’m all for suggestions and constructive criticism, just give me a few compliments and don’t tear me a new one in the process.

And now, my part is done. She was watching me and one other classroom today, then tomorrow she watches the other two rooms. We had our one-on-one today (for 90 minutes), so essentially, besides saying hello (and going to dinner tonight), I’m free. I’ve “passed”. She’s restored my confidence and ability to make judgement calls, validated my concerns and answered my questions.

She also suggested I consider going for additional training (to teach the next level up). For three summers. Out of state.

I’m not sure I’m quite ready for that.