If you are like me, you may find yourself standing at the edge of the finish line of another school year not yet ready to cross. Typically this time of year is a joyous moment, an opportunity to celebrate all that has been accomplished, and the chance to remind students how much you care about them one final time before the last bell rings. This year is unlike other years. This year has challenged education in ways we could have never imagined when we started in September. In September, if you would have told me that a pandemic would cause nationwide school closures and a scramble towards online learning, I don’t know that I could have believed it. But here we are.
And one of the parts that I find myself struggling with the most is the uncertainty. Uncertainty has a particular way of making us feel vulnerable, exposed, and desperate for that which is certain. The education system we thought we knew is gone, and replacing that is a void of questions that we may not be able to answer even up until the days, the hours, and the minutes before school is about to begin again. Districts are now faced with creating plans for both in person and virtual learning, problem solving solutions for budgets facing immense cuts, and trying to create equity in a system that too often lacks the resources necessary. The uncertainty of all this is daunting, and it is enough to make anyone feel like they are drowning.
But while there is uncertainty there is also certainty. In fact, I find that in every situation the beauty of certainty can be found, and the predicament we are in is no exception. Despite all the questions, issues, and worries that we have, here are three things I know for certain.
You were enough. What you were able to accomplish this year for your students, parents, colleagues, and community was enough. Whether you were able to help pack lunches, build virtual lessons, write students letters, touch base via Zoom, drop off items at houses, etc., you were enough and you gave enough. Together teachers were challenged with changing the face of education in a matter of weeks if not days, and you were a part of that change. Thank you for what you have done, and thank you for making a difference for children around the nation by providing stability, calm, and continued opportunities for learning.
You are important. Breathe. What you accomplished this year was an insurmountable task. Take time to celebrate that accomplishment. Learn to take time for yourself, and discover ways in which you can manage the uncertainties in your life. Find your reset. For me, my reset is running, losing myself to the sound of my feet hitting a trail. For you, that reset may be reading a good book, chatting with a trusted friend, relaxing on a beach, playing music, writing, hiking, lifting, or so many other wonderful things. Take time to do what makes you happy this summer, and make sure you have a reset. Don’t forget that we need to take care of ourselves before we can take care of others.
You are enough. Despite all of the uncertainties you will be able to handle any challenge you are presented with this fall. You are strong, and you are not alone. Teachers have always been able to change the world, and next year will be no different. I am so proud to be part of a profession where we are willing and able to work together to make the impossible possible for our students, families, and communities. No matter what happens next year, you will make an impact and you will be enough for your students, because you are enough.
So if you are standing at the edge of that finish line, give yourself the permission to step over. You did it, we did it, and no matter what happens, we will continue to make an impact because, simply put, that is just what teachers do. Take time for yourself and find your reset, knowing that we need to care for ourselves before we care for others. Enjoy your summer and the sunshine to fullest extent possible. And For the Love of Learning remember that you are enough.
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