School Closure

Our school went on a short spring break on March 11. We were to have a four day weekend and then return for the start of a new grading period.

We never resumed regular school days. The Governor issued an executive order closing schools through March 30th.

On March 16th, we had what we call around here a teacher work day. Teachers were able to go in, clean their rooms, plan for distance learning that would start on the 23rd, and work in Professional Learning Communities. So, it wasn't too bad. There was still some collaborative planning and human interaction.

On Wednesday, March 18th, we were given the option to work from home. I had planned to go into the building in the mornings, deliver instruction from my classroom and then monitor progress from home in the afternoons. That plan was approved.

That same afternoon, the college (where our high school is located) issued a statement that all buildings on their campus would close as of 4:00 on Thursday.

I went in on Thursday, picked up the minimum of materials that I would need to teach the rest of the semester and went home.

I started teaching from home yesterday. We did a little tutorial and practice with the software and just chatted a bit about the entire situation.

I gotta say, I am a person who doesn't like change and needs closure. This abrupt change and ending are very disconcerting to me. I miss my students. 

The Little Bird Has Returned

Our little bird has returned to the nest. It feels like a very crowded nest at the moment, but I have to say I am very proud of her. She graduated with honors, started a part-time job in a field she loves and was promoted twice in the first 60 days. She is now full time with the company and enjoying her work.

However, she doesn't make much money, so she is living with us for a while. It's different having another adult in the house. Especially one with so much energy!

I've learned a lot from her, though. I've learned some tricks for making the bed more easily. I've learned about Stitch Fix and FabFitFun - both of which I just adore! My baby bird has taught me some makeup tips and styling tips as well.

Of course, all of this is an adjustment. Baby bird is a bit messy. I am learning to overlook a bit of the mess, and she is learning to pitch in an do some of the chores. Unfortunately, they are not always the chores that I want to be done when I want them done, but she is starting to pitch in just a bit.

Several of my neighborhood moms are going through the same adjustment. We sometimes commiserate on Sunday afternoons down at the lake.  Knowing that other moms are going through the same thing really helps.

Maybe we should start a support group?