[rubyanne]

Last week I felt as if I was ready to quit teaching. I posted about calm people, the ones who seem to have it all together no matter how stressful things seem. I have only lived in my town a few years and am only a second year teacher. I feel like the newbie all the time and wish I could get my head above water. Well, Today I got two great compliments. I am on two goal teams and they meet at the same time this week. I can only attend one. A teacher stopped me in the hall and said that she told the principal she didn't know what the team (the one I won't be able to meet with) will do without me as I am one of the "strong ones". Then as I was leaving school today another teacher stopped me to tell me she convinced a friend of hers to send her daughter to our school and put her in my K class next year. I don't feel either of these teachers know me very well so this was a surprise! Maybe I seem more together than I feel! Also maybe I am finally settling into this town.

[luv2chat]

Sounds like you are coming across confident and capable! Often our insecurities are only in our own minds. Others see a very different picture of who we are. That's why genuine compliments like that mean so much, they help to give you a glimpse of how others see you.

Keep it going girl!

[ccarlton]

I just wanted to say that I'm glad you're feeling better about things. I think it's very natural for teachers to feel like they are doing their best because your goal is take your students from where they are to where you need to get them, and even if you as a teacher are doing your best, it often doesn't feel it, and it's definitely not often that teachers are recognized for their efforts. I think it's great that you received these compliments, being validated like that can make a big difference. Hope things continue to go well for you.

[NYshopgirl]

Totally agree with you. I have the same amount of experience as you. I think this is just how it goes. Last week I was devastated by a parent complaint. This week my kids are being so wonderful and told me today they wished they could stay all afternoon and night instead of going home b/c learning was so much fun today. Isn't it amazing how teaching can put you through so many highs and lows.... glad today was a high :-). My thinking is that hopefully, ultimately, as long as there's more highs than lows we have a good job :-)

[Hideeho]

Rubyanne, isn't it a great feeling to get that validation from others?
From your posts, I just have to believe you are a good teacher, one with heart.

Hang in there!