Here we go again...

Ok, on Monday August 25th, I will begin my 18th (yikes!) year in education. I cannot believe it has been that long. So think about it. My first year I had a class with kindergarten to 5th graders (self contained special ed). Those kids would be between 23 to 29 years old!!!! Holy Diver!! as my friend Wendy would say. I still remember most of them. Some have become very successful adults, and some have not. One of my fav's, Dustin, still comes to visit me. I love that boy, well man now.

Of course all of this reminds me of my dad. My dad was an educator and I remember him always commenting about what year I was starting. He always said that one thing about being in education is that you always get a fresh start each year. No other career gives you that opportunity. I agree completely. I also think of my dad because it was a year ago Aug 14 that he passed away. Those of you who know me know the story. Dad was 80 and lived a full life. Knowing his Catholic guilt, I'm sure he had regrets. However, I don't think he felt he missed out on anything. What was amazing was that at his calling hours, there were people there that my dad taught in high school eons ago that commented on how he changed their lives. As an educator, how can you beat that. Even if it is just one person you influenced. What an opportunity I have every day I go to work. I love my job!
Here's to year 18!! Gosh, can you believe it, Dad?