Dear Elms Parents,
I wanted to let you know of two family situations that will affect our classroom next year. First, I am expecting a baby at the end of next September. I will remain a full time teacher and will take about six weeks of maternity leave. Elizabeth Treat will be in charge of the classroom while I am away. It is my intention to attend all events such as curriculum night and conferences.
Secondly, my husband George is teaching a course in England for the last ten weeks of the Carleton school year. James, Hal, the unnamed #3, and I will be joining him for a month of that time. The tentative time for our trip is April 2010. Again, Elizabeth will be in charge of the classroom during my absence. I’ll be back in time for Village and April is a very straight forward month curriculum-wise with personal projects and MCAs.
I have thought long and hard about my decision to be the lead teacher next year in the Elms. The integrity and coherence of the children’s experience in the classroom has always been my single consideration and concern. It is extremely difficult to find a “long call” sub who is able to function effectively at Prairie Creek. That person needs to be able to design curriculum, develop community, and keep the momentum of the year moving. In a typical school you can hand a long-term sub your teacher’s editions and say “Start on lesson 54.” Not so at Prairie Creek.
In fact, for my previous two pregnancies, I resigned my teaching position so that we could find a teacher to replace me who would be a good fit for the school. I resigned with the knowledge that another full time position for me at Prairie Creek might not open any time soon. Luckily, both times one did.
This time around, I feel so confident in Elizabeth’s ability to lead the class that I believe the experience of the Elms will not be adversely affected by my absence. She knows these kids. She has watched me work to build our community all year. She has worked beside me and by herself to design strong, emergent curriculum. She knows the rhythms of life at Prairie Creek. She’s a very reflective practitioner and whenever I quiz her, “Why did I do that?” she’s able to explain the rationale behind my actions. While I am gone, we will continue to communicate and collaborate so that the transition is seamless for the children and, of course, she will be working closely with Cathy and Sarah.
I realize you still might be apprehensive. Please know that I treasure the Elms and the community and learning we share. It is very hard for me to spend even a day out of the classroom. I would not have made the decision to remain their teacher if I wasn’t fully confident that Elizabeth and I can ensure another great year for the Elms.
Thank you for your understanding and support. I’m happy to answer any questions you might have about next year.
Yours,
Michelle
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