Thursday, May 18, 2006

Hitting the Wall



Well, the final days of this little career of mine are here. And the overriding feeling I have is.......fatigue. This is not exclusive to me. All teachers this time of year are worn down by the experience of dealing with students. So many demands are made on your time and energy. Unfortunately, this time of year also uncovers latent disrespectful attitudes of some kids, who feel emboldened to smart off to adults and get their jollies that way.

There is not a singular, final moment in this process of ending my work life. It would be so much more dramatic if it all came down to one final moment when audience is clapping and the curtain comes down. But it is happening in stages. I had my final lecture two days ago. The last regular test was yesterday. My last class will be Tuesday, but I'll be exiting the room 10 minutes early to get to my bus ahead of the riders. On Wednesday, I drive the bus but have no classes. On Wednesday afternoon, the faculty has a short retreat and meal where the 3 retirees will be recognized. On Thursday, I turn in my grades, load up my car and leave.

Then, I step into a completely different phase of my life.

And start taking naps.

6 comments:

Brooke said...

Thanks for your hard work throughout the years, Dad.

Tim Perkins said...

No prob, babe. I love you.

papa

Blake Perkins said...

I don't think Maddie will let you take naps after the summer is over. Congrats again on your distinguished career.

I am Heather...creator of all things crafty! said...

I can't say enough good about the usefulness of naps. I try and take one every day when Luke naps. Jason seems to think naps are "unproductive" as he puts it. However, I contend that I am unproductive trying to chase a 21 month old around all day with little energy from lack of sleep. So, it's naps, naps and more naps for me. Congrats on your distinguished teaching careers. The world needs to pay teachers lots more than they do and credit them with keeping kids on the right track. I'm sure everyone can say that a certain teacher made a difference in their life. I know I can. Ms.Pam Bounds--5th Grade-Vial Elementary--GISD.

Tim Perkins said...

Heather: Thanks. I agree with you on naps AND the influence of teachers in my life. I didn't choose this profession until late in high school, when I sat at the feet of several master teachers every day and wanted to be able to do what they did.

I hope somehow I influenced some of my students in the same way.

Blake Perkins said...

I just had a girl first period tell me that if I didn't have a seating arrangement then most of the students will like me more.....

Good grief!