Classroom Sweet Classroom

So here I am again...late at school.  I know this is common practice for many teachers around the world, but it really hasn't been for me.  I don't believe that makes me a bad teacher, I believe that if I were to give over all my time to work and not have any time for my own pursuits I would be pretty grumpy.  That aside, day 2 of staying late was just as nice as day one.  I had thought in the past of staying late at least one day a week to catch up on things and I think I may finally do that.  As far as which day I am not sure.  I had considered Wednesdays for a time and may still do that as daycare is a non issue that day.

I really do think what has helped me stay late and be productive was the changes I've made to my workspace.  With the change of computer and the ability to visit sites like my satellite radio account so I can listen to all sorts of music while I work, and finding the power cord to my lil fountain, and clearing off a table and some shelves so I can really utilize my space...all of these changes taken together have really had a positive impact on my mindset, and surprisingly so.  Yes I know this is only day 2 of staying late and I really don't want to make it a habit of staying late daily, but the notion of staying late has become more bearable.  My classroom has finally become a bit more homey feeling.  I have been teaching for 11 years, and have moved rooms a few times.  This is my first time in my current room.  The move and settling in was stressful, then add to that me not knowing where my stuff is because of the rapid move.  After a trimester of school (12 weeks) I have finally made some time to catch my breath and settle into this room a bit more.  I don't expect my principal will have me move classrooms again (I have moved rooms twice in as many years) but I can't worry about that really.  I have to make the most of my room, continue making it mine, continue making it a place that supports my teaching and planning styles.  I marvel at the feel of this room...peaceful and airy before and after school...loud and bustling during the day...I find the extremes of it impressive.  In the end it is mine ALL day and I have to make it work for me.  Some people have a little cubicle or small workspace, I have a modern classroom that seats 35 with large windows to a nicely landscaped walkway that I may do with as I please (within reason and district policies of course!).  Despite all the stresses of teaching, I am grateful to be able to do what I do.

So I leave here tonight with a few more things accomplished and several more things ahead as always, but some progress is better than none at all.