Today is the first day of school. I’m starting my 19th year of teaching, my son starts high school and my daughter starts middle school.
The district decided to begin virtually, so I have opted to teach from home. I figured I’d be slightly more productive at home with the dog and two kids, as opposed in my classroom alone with my two kids.
I wanted today to feel normal, so I had us all go outside to take the obligatory first day pictures.
I put on makeup, did my hair and got dressed like I would for regular school. I always try to look nice for the first few weeks… then it always devolves into jeans and hoodies, or yoga pants and tees – always with my hair in a messy bun. Let’s see how long it takes to reach that point while working from home.
As expected, there were technology hiccups this morning. I had students who couldn’t log in, some who could log in but couldn’t see my materials, and others who kept coming in and out. I used my go-to of sarcasm and humor, and we got through it.
My children had a good first day. It was a but rough to start, but it went rather smoothly. They like their classes and teachers.
I hate starting the school year like this. I hate not being able to see or hear my students. I hate not getting reactions to funny things I say. It’s very lonely and isolating talking to a screen all day with no interaction.
I hope that this is short-lived. I hope that people can get it together, wear a mask and make the world healthier so we can return to school in person – sooner, rather than later.