When mid-August arrives, it means new beginnings - Fall sports tryouts, band practice, dance team drills, new school subjects, new classes, new teachers, new friends, and new interests - all centered around the start of the new school year. I have always loved this time of year. During my 37 years of teaching and my 33 years of coaching girls' and boys' golf, I liked the promise and new start of August even more than the resolutions and new beginnings of January 1. On the first day of school, there are no failures, just the undertaking of a new and exciting start to school life.
The students I have spoken with are so excited about returning to in-person learning this year. After the loneliness and isolation of the pandemic, expectations and excitement for the new school year are running high! And, why not? As the country struggles to return to pre-pandemic life, students and teachers are eager to be back in school. One thing I learned in my 37 years teaching 10th grade English is this: kids need their friends. They learn to grow and mature through their relationships with friends, which are so essential to well-being. Last year, many students became despondent during their seclusion and took their own lives. Kids need each other, just as adults need other adults. Life isn't worth much without the enrichment of relationships in our daily lives.
My 51 year high school class reunion is coming up on the weekend, and my high school memories are as fresh as if they happened yesterday. I loved school - of course! That's why I became a teacher! - and I hope for similar experiences for all students.
I hope the beginning of this school year is exciting and fulfilling for all students and teachers. Here's to a successful year!
Visit Dede's web page 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
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 now has plush Grady bunnies for sale!
Connect with Dede!
Twitter @dederittman
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