Starting to Say "Goodbye."

Today was the last class period for all Odd Period classes for the semester. We will have the finals periods on Tuesday, but that's it. I have been telling each class "Goodbye."

I have been surprised by their reactions. Each class has let out a little gasp of "What!" Then, there generally follows "That's not fair!" or "Why won't you stay here?" I must have had 20 kids tell me that I need to come back here to teach next year.

I might, if I get the chance.

One kid said, "You can't leave, you are the only teacher in the school who doesn't hate me!"

I spent the last ten minutes of my Computer I class today having private "conferences" with each kid, telling them that I enjoyed working with them and giving them some sage advice. They are some great kids and I really like them. There are a couple that drive me nuts, because they won't stop moving, but on the whole, they have been a good group.

I saw Mr. Caddoo by himself in the teacher's lounge today and talked with him for a few minutes. I told him that I have really grown to love this school, the staff and especially the kids. I asked him to please keep me in mind if any positions open up for next year, as I would be happy to come here to teach.

I think that there might be a good chance that this happens. There are currently three first year teachers at the school teaching a hodge-podge of classes to fill in a full schedule. Ms. Francis teaches part time at CLP and part time at Wellington Jr. High School. She is a French teacher, but teaches one of the Computer I classes here. Ms. Kimball is a Social Studies teacher, but teaches a Computer class, as well as Discovery (Behavior Management classes) and some other stuff. Mr. Schauer is also a Social Studies teacher, but is currently teaching a class of Personal Economics and another in Leadership. If some of these teachers get jobs teaching their subject matter full time, that might mean there will be an opening for someone like me. I would strongly consider it. CLP is a really great school with an excellent staff that really cares about the kids.

Anyway, I am not feeling quite as bad about leaving the kids as I thought I might, although I will probably miss them a lot when the quarter is over.