Where Did This First Year Go?

Are you asking that same question? As this is being written, spring break is next week and there are only nine weeks of school left! We hope this has been an exciting year for you from learning many new things to accepting the day to day challenges that came your way. As we near the end of the year it is time to reflect. It could be you are wondering how you will make it to the end and what you will need to do to keep yourself motivated. Or maybe, this year far exceeded anything you thought teaching could be and you are really sad that summer will be here soon. If that is the case, hold on. Next year may not be such smooth sailing; however, how you finish your year will be up to you. We would like for you to end it on a positive note!

We noticed that many of you who came to the first year luncheon at KMEA were without mentors. We strongly encourage you to e-mail/call your KMEA District Mentor Chair and request a mentor. IT IS NOT TOO LATE! In fact, we suggest that you have a mentor for at least the first three years. When you invest in a mentor, you are tapping into a wealth of experience and knowledge. If you are lucky enough to have another music teacher in the district, go ahead and ask him/her. If not, get help from the district mentor chair in your district. Please do not hesitate to contact us at www.ksmea.org/mentoring for additional help. We are firm believers that having a mentor DOES make a difference in your teaching career.

If this has been a difficult year for you, write down an idea or two that could make a difference through the end of the school year. You may need to try new techniques with some of your difficult classes. It is never too late to incorporate new methods at any time of the year. Ask other teachers in your building what works for them and certainly go to someone you admire and trust.

There are many helpful tips on the mentoring link above, so check it out. If you are unsure about literature, administration issues, staff issues, or parents just to name a few, please email us and we will respond. Do not wait, do it now. We would be happy to call you too if that is needed. The important thing is you are not alone. If you came to the "tips from the trenches" session or first year luncheon at KMEA, you know there is tremendous support and people who care.

Lastly, if you have any topics you would like presented at the KMEA ISW please email us. We are always trying to find new ways to connect with beginning teachers. Thanks to all the teachers who served on the panel and those who spoke at the luncheon this year. Even though the weather was not the best, it was one of our best turn-outs for these events.

As we near this first year, congratulations! YOU did it. Keep a positive direction and don't give up!