Changes

"For last year's words belong to last year's language. And next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning." — T.S. Elliot

I recently made a huge decision. After months of going back and forth- I decided to apply for the job at Hunter High school and I got it. How did I come to make this decision? A few posts back I discussed the pros and cons of leaving my current position at Valley. I was very torn and recieved some great advice from everyone. Finally, the time to apply had arrived, and I still didn't know what would be best for me.

As an alumnus of Hunter High, there was also a little bit of sentimentality attatched to my desire for the position. I loved it when I went to school there and I would love to be there again. I was talking with my sister and she said that I might as well apply, because then I would be keeping my options open. So, I did- still unsure of what I wanted.

I was called in for an interview, and I hoped that I would receive a strong impression either way. The interview went very well- and I felt good about the interview, but I still didn't know what I wanted. At the interview, the principal told me that they would let me know either way that afternoon. Well, this sent me into a bit of a panic! I needed to make a decision!

I went back to Valley and spent most of my 4th period consultation awaiting a call and chatting with the office secretary, Pam. (Another thing I LOVE about Valley are the amazing people I've worked with!) As I was talking with her she said to me, "This is a really great opportunity for you isn't it?" I agreed that it was. I went back to my classroom and pondered what to do. I loved my job, I loved the school- was I ready and willing for a change? Would it consume my life? Would I be ok? After much thought I decided that if they called and offered me the job I would take it. Then I prayed I wouldn't be offered the job.

That afternoon, my sister, Annelise came over to rehearse for an Alumni show to honor my old drama teacher, and we were performing. Also in the room was my student, Preston who has been such a joy to teach. The phone rings- I pick it up, "Hi this is Doug (W-something?) from Hunter High School, how are you?" Me- "Fine" D- "Well, I am calling you to offer you the Theatre position at Hunter High School." Me- "Really? Awesome?" Silence... D- "Uh, are you accepting the offer?" Me- (after what seemed like a million moments and a million emotions I weakly replied) Yes. D- "Great we'll get the paper work etc..."

In that moment, I felt a million emotions and immediately started to cry. I felt peace about my decision, but also an intense sadness about the fact that I would be leaving my beloved job. Nervous and excited about my new adventures, but reluctant to leave... Annelise soon embraced me and so did Preston. I went and told the office staff and we all had a good cry and hugs. But, they were very supportive of my decision and were excited for me.

I then texted my old drama teacher and she texted this back to me, "YYYYEEESSS. I'm crying. Honest to g, I'm crying. We will announce it tonight if you want."

That night, I performed at the alumni show. I sang "Wash that Man Right Outa my Hair" with Annelise and "Children Will Listen" by myself. 

"Careful the things you say

Children will listen

Careful you do it too

Children will see

And learn, 

Guide them that step away-

Children will glisten

Tamper with what is true

And children will turn

If just to be free

Careful before you say

"Listen to me"

Children will listen."

At the end of the evening Barb, my old teacher, introduced me to the crowd. I went onstage with tear filled eyes and embraced her.

I am so grateful for the outpouring of love and support. When I first told my students that I would be leaving there was a lot of tears, but they understood. My family has been awesome and I have loved all the face book comments cheering me forward.

I am especially grateful for my dear friend Sarah who is my BFAW! (Best friend at work) Even though I know she wants me to stay, she has been so unselfish in her support of me! I am so grateful she is my friend- and now we can just be BFF's! I will miss her and many others terribly. But, now we will just have a great excuse to play hooky from school and go to DISNEYLAND!! (And no one will suspect when we are both mysteriously absent from school on the same day!! MWA HA HA!)

So with a heavy heart, I move on. But I am starting to get excited. The day after I accepted this job, I got this text from Toffer, "I was thinking today about how excited I am for you. Really, it made me smile just thinking about it. :-)" That was the beginning of my growing excitement. I've also decided that next year the musical will be "Bye Bye Birdie"!

Thanks to all for your amazing love and support. It's going to be an adventure!