As promised, I wanted to make sure I followed up with a new blog. Without getting into the specifics, both Jamie and I have had some collective family items we have each needed to take care of. Between hospitals, Alzheimer's mild heart attacks etc from family members, these events have forced us to refocus on our families and make sure our priorities are aligned correctly. That being said, I am beginning to get our Navigating Solutions blog posts up and running again.
What I want to do today is to give each of you in education a pat on the back. You thrived in the most "normal" school you have had in three years. The reduction of a pandemic, which in turn lessened mask wearing and distancing has been good for schools. Students were finally able to practice typical social skills with each other without so many hurdles to contend with.
Then, there is you- the people in the trenches! You have once again sifted through a continuously changing system and made differences in the lives of your students. Each day, you came in- sometimes pulling up your proverbial bootstraps before getting out of your car. You did this in order to competently teach and work with students.
You have made it again! Another school year is coming to a close and you not only made it through but did it with grit and determination. I applaud the younger generation of educators who work super hard with students throughout the years. You take them on, nurture them and teach skills they will need for their future.
Now, you will get a well deserved break. I want to challenge you with this. Please rest up and take care of yourself over the summer. I know firsthand some of the stresses you consistently deal with. It is a hard job but such a good one. I hope you will be able to take the necessary time and do the following (if at all possible)
1. Turn your alarm off.
2. Hang out in your pajamas a little more.
3. Spend time with your own kids and create some memories.
4. Take a vacation- even if it is a small vacation to a local place, get out of town for a little bit.
5. Spend some quality time exercising and getting outside. Vitamin D is a game changer.
6. Reconnect with friends. (I myself got into a "non social mode" while Covid was such a huge thing and am trying to force myself to become social once again. It was a bad habit I formed).
7. Read for pleasure
8. Reflect on the good things.
I am certain there are many other items I could come up with to add to this list. You probably have some favorite things you like to do. Mostly, just take care of yourself. Recharge your batteries because that next set of students will need you at your full power.
Happy Summer from Jon
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