It is a beautiful thing when a career and a passion come together. - Unknown

Summer vacation is not only for kids!  I know that after teaching for 37 years. The summer is a time to rejuvenate and recharge. Although those vacation weeks fly by too fast, reading, relaxing, and reflecting definitely made me feel better equipped to handle the stressors of going back to the classroom.

I taught in a school building in which most of the teachers were quite positive, and these teachers loved their jobs, even when they needed a break.  As a faculty, we supported each other: sharing lesson plans; our personal lives; ideas on how to reach a student; ideas on how to help a parent.  However, sometimes a really good teacher would get down on the whole profession, and down on himself as well.  That was when the friends and colleagues had to provide counsel and reminders of the students who have benefitted from knowing that teacher; sometimes calling out the names of those students for whom the teacher made such a difference. Our staff was truly together on thinking about the good of all students, and their sharing and caring ways prevented many of our group from succumbing to teacher burnout.

Summer vacation is halfway through, and I hope all teacher friends continue to become refreshed and renewed, because you will need all of your energy to continue to make a difference in the lives of your students very soon. Relax, reflect, and rediscover your passion!  You make a difference every day!

As always, I welcome your comments and suggestions. 

Rittman Publishing, LLC ®

Visit Dede's webpage for complete details on her award-winning book, STUDENT TEACHING: THE INSIDE SCOOP FROM A MASTER TEACHER.  Many colleges have made the book required reading. 
Signed copies are available  www.dederittman.com Dede is also a national speaker on The Three C's for Classroom success: Confidence, communication, and Creativity; Avoiding Teacher burnout; and many other inspirational topics. 

I LOVE writing. And I love writing children's books- my newest passion. Although it will be a ton of work, I am looking forward to selling my books.  Since I was a secondary teacher, I know that I have much to learn about elementary students, and I will have to follow my own advice and be my genuine self.  However, I also know that I am passionate about helping kids who have to wear glasses, and that GRADY GETS GLASSES sends a positive message. I am willing to work hard and do all the things that also made me a successful teacher for 37 years. I remain inspired! 


Elementary teachers in Western Pennsylvania and beyond - I am willing to come into your classroom in person or as a virtual field trip through a group called Field Trip Zoom.  Check them out!  http://www.fieldtripzoom.com/ 

Teacher friends- let me know if you want me to read GRADY GETS GLASSES at your school. I am willing to come in to discuss the creative writing process, why writing is important, and personal fulfillment through writing, along with reading my book.  I would appreciate the exposure, and I would make signed copies available for purchase in your classrooms following the reading.  Please email me at dederittman@gmail.com .  The website www.gradygetsglasses.com IS UP AND RUNNING!!!.  Signed copies ARE available!   Grady plush toys are ordered! 

Please like Dede's new page Grady Gets Glasses for updates about her children's book. https://www.facebook.com/gradygetsglasses?ref=hl 

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