Today while I was subbing I had a conversation with an employee in the building that I haven't talked to in while. She was asking about me being in school. She asked what I was going to school for. I told her early childhood education (I'll be certified EC-6). Her response was, "Why are you doing that? That's what everyone does." The thing is, I had an easy answer. Because it is something I have spent a long time thinking about.
I told her, "Because it is my passion... and what I'm supposed to do."
When I first went to college, I was very vocal about the fact that I was NOT going into elementary ed. Because that's what everyone did. And I did not want to be like everyone else. I was a business finance major. I loved my accounting classes. I was going to get a job in the business world. [Side note: I also was very vocal about the fact that I was NOT going to get married before I graduated and certainly wasn't going to have any kids until I was at least 25.] Turns out that I've eaten a whole lot of my very loud words.
Through many humbling, heart-breaking, and wonderful experiences... I have changed.
When Ethan started kindergarten, I was devastated. I was not ready to be done with that part of my life. I wanted more kids, but that was not an option. I could not stand being at home by myself in our quiet house. So I started substitute teaching. And through that I discovered my love for teaching children. Through it I have been able to fill that void that I felt. Through many prayers, I KNOW that this is what I am supposed to be doing. Even if it is what "everyone else" does. Who is that "everyone else," anyway?
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
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3 thoughts & comments:
Your great with the little kids. I don't think I could teach below second anymore. It takes a special person to help those little people.
Yes it does take a special person...someone like you. What a beautiful post Andrea. I love to watch you with children. You have a special way with them and it is very admirable. You are very admirable. Love you!!
It takes a special person to teach EC. I subbed several times for first grade and although the kids were sweet it's not my favorite age group.
I get that asked all the time as to why I teach those "terrible, moody, disrespectful" teenagers and I reply because I'm suppose to and I LOVE it! I honestly don't know what else I would do with my life. I love waking up and going to work every day. My kids are constantly making me laugh.
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