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A Few Years in the Classroom Changes Everything

            It has been four years since I first wrote a professional goal statement for my admission into the Masters of Education Online Program at Michigan State University.  It was during the year I was laid off from Dearborn Public Schools that I decided to use my new found extra time and complete my Masters.  After reflecting back on my thoughts and goals at a time when I was just beginning this adventure into the world of education, it is quite apparent that a year off followed by few years in the classroom can change everything.
 
          When I first started my masters, I had one vision, to become a high school principal.  I wanted to use teaching as a stepping stone and continue my education with the plan of receiving an advanced degree, past my Masters, in administration.  At the time I thought this would bring me the most satisfaction in a career in education.  Yet, as I entered my second year as a teacher, at the High School level  I realized that I was satisfied as a classroom teacher. Now however, after a few years at the Middle School level, I am now looking towards becoming a principal again.  
 
          Being in the classroom on a daily basis with middle students, I have realized, is not enough for me.  If I were to continue as a classroom teacher it must be at the High School level.   Teaching is fun and at times extremely enjoyable and rewarding, but especially with the Middle School students there are many more times where I find that all my hard work is not recognized nor respected.   Watching students grow through out the year academically, but also as young men and women is rewarding.  Though there are tough days and hard to manage students, yet each time I somehow find a way remind myself of all of the knowledge I have disseminated and students I have reached.  What I look forward to now is taking my career to the next level, administration.
         
          It is amazing how goals, plans and thoughts can change by any and every experience.  I am so thankful that I chose a career that is fulfilling and rewarding on a regular basis.  However, I look forward to the challenges of the administrative side of education.​