While I was on my epic road trip (see What's New? #1), I got a call from the principal at Silverton Christian School, offering me the 1st and 2nd grade position. The teacher who had taught 1st and 2nd grade previously had decided kind of last minute to take a year's medical leave. Back in May I had interviewed for the 3rd and 4th grade position, but it was offered to someone else. At that interview, they had mentioned the possibility of another position opening up in the fall, but that they weren't sure yet if it would be open. Well, it suddenly was available, and they called me to offer the job to me.
There are more details about how hard it was for me and what lead to me finally accepting the job here. I arrived back from my epic road trip in the afternoon/evening on August 4, and I accepted the job on August 5. School started on September 3. In between, I had to prep my classroom, find somewhere to live closer to Silverton, and deal with all the regular transitions that come from changing jobs and moving. Originally, I was looking for a room to rent from someone in Silverton. I had my mom helping me look, and I even asked friends on Facebook if they knew anyone/somewhere to look. I also asked the secretary at work if she knew of anyone at the church that could help me find somewhere. Well, my sister had been searching for work and was mainly looking in Portland, but also some in Salem. I asked her (on a whim) if she would be interested in getting an apartment with me in Salem. She agreed, and we pursued that possibility. We looked for some apartments to go look at, drove around Salem and looked at about 3 before finding one that was just perfect! It is just as nice (if not nicer!) than my last place, which was absolutely great. I loved that apartment in Oregon City. I was sad to leave for many reasons. I'm getting sidetracked, though. Back to the apartment in Salem. Another blog post will happen to give more details on that. :)
So, now I am a 1st and 2nd grade teacher. I am no longer teaching 10 different grades and a variety of subjects. I really enjoyed my time at SJA, but I am very thankful for this God-given opportunity at SCS. My coworkers are supportive, welcoming, and friendly. I am enjoying getting to know them. We all seem to work well as a team, and it's nice to have a small staff that seems to be on the same page. The larger the staff gets, the harder it can be to stay on the same page. There are only 8 teachers on staff, including specials. It's small, but cozy. :)
Here are some BEFORE pictures of my classroom. Some of it has stayed the same, because I had limited time to plan and prep for a 1st and 2nd classroom, and because the teacher before me kept things set up pretty well. I will try to remember to take some AFTER photos next time I am in my classroom. :)
This picture was taken from the door as you walk into my classroom.
Looking along the wall to the front of the room from the door.
From the door along the back of the classroom.
Inside the classroom, looking to the left wall.
Calendar/Math board to the left of the white board.
The white board and alphabet/handwriting cards around it.
The job board to the right of the white board.
The computer table.
Bookshelf with teacher resources and math tubs.
Storage cupboards with classroom library books on top.
Back corner with work table, counter and sink.
More teacher resources.
My desk.
This was my original desk setup once I heard that I had 10 students.
Manipulative and game storage #1.
Manipulative and game storage #2.
There was a third manipulative/game storage cupboard that I forgot to take a picture of. Woops!
As soon as I can, I'll get picture posted of what the classroom looks like now. It's very different, and yet not all that different at the same time. I will admit, I did spend a long time trying to organize everything. Last year was a chaotic year, since they built a new building with new classrooms and moved in part way through the year. The 1st/2nd teacher moved into the new building, and then immediately took time off for medical stuff. So she hadn't settled into the classroom completely.
I've really been enjoying this job. I had an epiphany moment on the 3rd day of school while I was teaching Bible. I felt so absolutely at peace and happy. I knew I was doing what I am supposed to be doing. Praise God for leading me here!
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