Growing Up

As a student, education was rarely fun.  School was HARD!  I struggled throughout school spending twice as much time as my peers in order to get mediocre grades.  Lots of tears not understanding why I had to work so much harder.  Looking back, I had no clue how I consistently put so much effort without quitting.  Little by little, I made progress and when it was time to pick a career, I knew I needed to help kids who struggled.  Knowing how I persevered through my struggles allows me to connect to my student’s.  I can see myself in their eyes when they tell me how they feel.  I can make that connection and be truthful when I say, “I understand.  I’ve been there.”

 

The Dreaded Covid

Back in the fall of 2021, my family and I all were diagnosed with Covid at the same time.  Fortunately, we all had mild cases.  We even taught or attended classes on zoom while quarantined.  Unfortunately, three days after I returned to school I woke up with extremely sore legs.  I was told by my doctor that this was “expected up to 12 weeks.”  I ended up getting diagnosed with Long-Covid experiencing extremely sore to painful muscles.  This diagnosis changed my life.  I went from being active to needed consistently rest.  I use to work-out 3-5 days, but now going to physical therapy!  I completed a half-marathon just 4 years ago and now I need to use a cane when I go to events!  This diagnosis changed my approach to everything.  Ultimately, I feel fortunate that I am still able to continue teaching even though some days are painful.  I hope that in time I can lead my students by example of perseverance.  

 

After my diagnosis, I was spending a lot more time homebound, needing to rest.  I realized I needed something to occupy my mind and time.  I have always been a reader, but after 3 months, I knew I needed something else.  I started a Teachers Pay Teachers Store.  Over the past 20+ years as a Special Education Teacher and 5+ years as Certified Wilson Reading Program Specialist, I have created so much to individualize for my students.  My students have succeeded when given the right visual or graphic organizer.

 

Moving Forward 

Even though I still hope to have never had Long Covid, at least something positive has come out of it.  I am able to use my teaching experience to help other parents, educators, and students.  Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you are having trouble with a student, finding a need in your classroom, or need a resource you don’t have time to create.  Feel free to email or fill out my suggestions form here.

 

 I hope you take a look around the resources page and TPT store to see what would help you and your students.

 

The Teacher Support Hub

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Skip to content