Part II, Day 9: Back in the Saddle

Today was truly a step back in time. I taught for the first time in seven years. Literally, seven years. See seven years ago this week, I was placed on bed rest during my pregnancy with the twins. So when my children's school called to tell me the Spanish teacher was away and asked if I would like to help out, I said yes.

It was exciting to be back in the classroom and I totally want this job should it ever come to pass that the teacher retires! Her schedule is the cushiest schedule in the entire world: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 12:20-2:20. Yep, you read that correctly. Four days a week for two hours. A total of three classes per day with three very light preps. From what I can understand no to little homework and preps easier than I have ever had.

I was nervous about teaching the middle school level since I had not taught that level EVER. I started out teaching at UCLA as part of my fellowship for the doctoral program (I did not finish because my professor, who was the only expert in my field left the university and never returned). Then I taught at some community colleges. Then I was at an all girls' high school for a while. Then a stay at home mom driving my husband insane with my endless projects. Though I think he enjoys my enthusiasm and drive. :)

It was fantastic to be speaking Spanish again for long chunks and I realized that I still have the teaching thing. The kids were enthusiastic. We did their exercises so quickly and it was so much fun. Though those poor seventh graders had to endure six listening comprehensions via CD for 35 minutes! I was bored to tears, I can only imagine how they felt.

I spoke with the French and Chinese teachers later (All the language teachers share an office) and they were shocked when I told them that I had a ball. The French teacher told me that it has not be fun for her for years. That is a little sad. Teaching was always fun for me. I hated the correcting, but loved the students and loved seeing their eyes open with excitement to learn a new lesson. Let's see if this substitute gig ever pans out.

Oh, and my first grade daughters informed me that they could hear me downstairs. Still a loud teacher... gotta love booming Spanish in the quiet school. Those kids had so much fun!!

Anyway, I will report on my second day. Today truly brought me happiness!