Nov. 18: What do you appreciate about your colleagues? How do I love my coworkers? Let me count the ways. Treats: I love my coworkers because 9 days out of 10, we have treats. It might be homemade banana bread, a mini KitKat, or a Friday tailgate. Whatever caloric intake it might be, I never have to go hungry during my work day. We share recipes, too. Last week when I told some colleagues that I would be cooking my first-ever Thanksgiving turkey, two of them shared their favorite recipes and tips with me. (I'll report back on the results next week!) Therapy: This fall our family faced a pretty significant change, and my coworkers provided free therapy at the lunch table. They listened and responded accordingly, and still weeks later, several of them check in on the situation. Our lunchtime therapy wasn't a one-time event either. When I took a leave of absence two years ago because one of my own children was struggling, I felt loved and cared for by the men and women who teach next door. Working here feels like an extension of my family. Camaraderie: I'm lucky to say that I actually have fun with my colleagues. Whether it's randomly singing 90's songs in the hallway before class or participating in a Digital Media Production video or homecoming skit, I am grateful to work with people who know how to let loose and have a good time, even at the risk of our own embarrassment. (Watch the above video for the Spice Girls at 3:15 for evidence of my own embarrassment.) Pop Culture: Every Tuesday I rush to Donna's desk to discuss The Black List. When I start a new book that I can't put down, I can't wait to share the title with Becca. Who got sent home on The Voice or what did I think of the series finale of How I Met Your Mother? I'll discuss it with the crew at lunch. I appreciate having a superficial level to connect on as well. Professionalism: While we know how to have a good time and discuss frivolous matters, we also know when to get to work. I work with some of the best educators in the state. Today I had the pleasure of collecting Instructional Practices Inventory (IPI) data for two periods which means I had the chance to observe my colleagues in their elements. In every classroom, with every subject matter, I saw engaged students because I have colleagues working hard to connect. From soil testing in Ag I to stop-motion videos in Digital Media Production to a ping pong tournament in Adventure P.E., I witnessed my colleagues creating valuable learning experiences that I wished I could be a part of. Sorry, folks, but I work with the best colleagues in the world.
1 Comment
Katie Nissen
11/18/2014 11:09:06 am
This is awesome! I agree with everything you said, we are so fortunate to work in such a great school with fun, dedicated, and superior staff!
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