A school year is measured by quarters, semesters, days rolled into months, just all the typical ways we calculate time. But a better measurement might be the ways in which you celebrate together, with bonfires and field trips and goofy spirit days and community meetings and yes, stimulating classes, institutionalizing camaraderie, learning and joy every day. Let’s consider those moments to gauge time well spent, because this past year, I would say, we nailed it! As with any endeavor with a diverse population in these ever demanding times, there are always challenges, but in reflection, the caring culture of my high school is one I’m quite proud to be part of.

As I drive away from classrooms and colleagues it is easy to think of all the tasks I wish I had accomplished, for teaching, like any art, always showing ways to change and grow, to redo and think anew. But today, I just tell myself, congrats. You did it!

Summer stretches out ahead with a golden promise that I plan to make good on.