I know that I am not alone in saying that this has been the toughest year of teaching…ever. My prior years of teaching experience along with my knowledge and skills in technology integration certainly helped with the enormous learning curve that set itself squarely in my face for the 2020-2021 school year. Even so, the varied schedules between online, hybrid, online, and hybrid again have taken its toll on me physically, mentally, and emotionally. Don’t get me started on the technology issues that have plagued both my students and me.

And that’s the just the professional side of my life.

But amidst the craziness of pandemic teaching, a ray of hope appeared…a way that will nurture my passion for working with adult learners as well as a means to utilize my skills as a researcher and learning designer.

I was offered a job as a consultant.

This position will allow me to expand my skillset as I will be working with larger organizations both within and outside of education. I am excited at the prospect of writing curriculum, mentoring teachers, and even doing a bit of data analysis, too.

I have met with my wonderful new boss, colleague, and friend several times already. So, while I am exhausted beyond measure with end-of-the-year summative assessments and report card grades looming on the horizon, I am bolstered and energized by the prospect that during the summer I will be able to work in an area that satisfies my passions for education, technology integration, and learning.

If anything, this pandemic has taught me to appreciate the things that I have and to take things one day at a time.

I plan on doing a lot of both this summer.