This year: For the first time in my whole teaching career (including pre-public school service) I have a schedule that I am familiar with in a school I am familiar with. No one changed anything (traditional to block or block to teaming or what have you) and as a result I actually knew what was going on from day one.
Last year: Our school was brand new and nobody wanted to be there, especially the oldest students who felt ripped out of their old school, where they were supposed to be the BMOC's (Big Men On Campus).
This year: Everyone gets that we're here, we do great things, so deal with it, it's all good.
Last year: had to figure out how to deal with R's two kids every other weekend when I'm used to
having my grown-up time. Many tough moments and times when I simply had to leave for a few minutes.This year: I am now annoyed that we are skipping a weekend with the kids and would like to talk to their mother about it personally. I especially want them for Halloween!
Last year: Only about 35% of students turned in the first homework assignment.
This year: 90% of my students turned in their first homework assignment.
Last year: had to pass the CTEL in all its mythified glory.
This year: Passed! and now working on BTSA :( but I have a feeling I can square that away pretty easily.
Last year: had a car that needed to go to the shop every 2 months like clockwork.
This year: I have a new baby, and I'm thinking it's going to be very reliable.
As you can see, most of the major stressors have been taken care of. I expect next year will be even better, and the next, etc. I think my life is approaching something close to what you'd call "settled". I'm very okay with that.
