It started on a #SATchat one Saturday morning six or so years ago. was just published, and I was asked to guest moderate the chat.
The topic of the book was , essentially all the things I wish someone had honestly told me when I started teaching; not because it would have changed my mind, but because it would have better prepared me for what I was experiencing.
Since I struggled mightily the first few years, but persevered, sometimes in spite of myself and the situation, I wanted to help others navigate the early years a little better. It was on this chat that I met .
When the chat was over, Peter direct messaged me and asked me if I wanted to write a guest post for his blog, Excited by the opportunity to write for a nationally recognized blog, I accepted immediately and got right to work.
Although Peter gave me a two-week deadline, I completed my draft eagerly in two hours and sent it right along. I had no idea that this would be the beginning of an important professional friendship in my life.
The piece ran shortly after that, and I had asked Peter to keep me in mind for future posts, which he took me up on six more times. Over the course of that year, he advocated for me to have my own blog.
Humbled by his belief in me, I waited patiently for to get back in touch. It took some time, but this blog was born.
At the end of July, Ed Week will be ending some of its teacher blogs, including my own. Writing for you, sharing my experiences, and participating in transparent reflection for the last five years has been an honor and a privilege.
Many of you, my readers and larger audience have shared your stories, too, through guest posts and comments. Thank you for being such loyal readers and critics of my journey along the way. We have surely learned together.
In the final two weeks, my blog will share some highlights and final thoughts. Although this blogging space will be going dark, the archive will continue to exist, and I will continue to blog on my personal website . Your thoughts, feedback, and stories will be welcomed there as they have always been welcomed here.
I’m not finished yet :)
What have been some of your favorite topics on the blog? What would you like me to consider in the future? Please share
Photo made using Pablo.com
CORRECTION: This blog was corrected to reflect the changes taking place on Education Week this summer.