Change Amidst More Change: Embracing a New Teaching Position
I am hesitant to share this but the underlying theme for my life for next year is to be brave so here I go. I know some of you are probably sick of hearing about my thoughts regarding my teaching placement for next year, but for those who are not, read on. I decided to briefly share my story for those who might be going through a similar situation.
On March 11, 2 days before PA schools closed for COVID-19, I found out my teaching placement for next year: 2 sections of 7th-grade math and 3 sections of 8th-grade math. I was completely blindsided and devastated. I was determined to keep the job teaching 6th-grade that I poured my heart and soul into for ten years. I fought hard but to no avail. After having many heartfelt conversations with my supervisor and principal, they decided to put me in 7th-grade math where I will be teaching Algebra, Pre-Algebra, and Math 7. Truth be told, 8th-grade terrifies me but I can wrap my head around teaching 7th-grade.
It has been a roller coaster of emotions since then; some days I have accepted my placement and am looking forward to it while other days I just want to cry (and do cry).
Tips for dealing with a new position/placement:
I wanted to share some tips for those like me who are being forced into a new position/placement:
Grieve
Take the time you need to grieve. Grieve the loss of your classroom, team, subject, grade, etc. whatever that looks like for you. For me, grieving has looked like tears, journaling, and long conversations with coworkers, close friends, and family. As teachers, we pour our whole hearts into what we do and a change like this is never easy. Grieving is a fluid process; I wouldn’t expect to grieve for one day and feel 100% better the next (at least not in my experience).
Stay Positive
For those who know me, you know that I am not good with change. I don’t like it. I didn’t ask for this change in position, but I am trying to stay positive. I am fortunate to move up with such an awesome group, especially feeling like our year was somewhat cut short due to distance learning. Amidst the budget cuts and economic struggles due to COVID-19, I am also very grateful to still have a job. I encourage you to try to stay positive.
Self-Care
Take the time this summer for all the self-care: mentally, physically, and emotionally. Self-care for me this summer will include socially distancing with friends and family, pool time, reading, creating new resources, baking, and Crossfit.
Prepare
I always feel better about change when I prepare. As much as I need time to rest and recharge, I will dedicate part of my summer (NOT the WHOLE summer) learning 3 new curriculums as well as moving into and setting up my new classroom. Allot certain days of the week or hours of the day to spend on preparing to ensure it does not consume your summer.
Network
When you are ready, I would recommend networking. Talk to people who will be teaching the same grade, subject, etc. as you, whether they be coworkers or complete strangers through social media. I am personally not quite at this step yet but I hope to be there soon. One thing I have been doing (when I can and actually remember) is partaking in a Zoom happy hour with my new team on Fridays to get to know them a little better. End of the year inservice time will force me to chat with coworkers about my new position, and I am planning to create Facebook groups for teachers who will be teaching the same curriculum as me. Having a supportive group of educators dedicated to their profession to bounce ideas off of is crucial during this time of change.
Concluding Thoughts
While change is never easy, grieving, staying positive, taking care of yourself, preparing, and networking are some tips to help you through this difficult time. Remember, it’s totally normal and okay to feel all the feels for as long as you need. You are strong. You can embrace change. You can keep an open mind and heart. You might even love your new position. Good luck!
