The first two weeks of school are so important to get everyone acclimated and ready to work again. I've had a great first two weeks this year! My students are respectful and are working hard. My AP class not only grew from 1 section to 2 sections, but the numbers exceed double last year's total enrollment. While this does present the challenge of more to grade, it also gives the blessing of many more young minds who are engaged in the process of learning about civics and participation willingly!
Overall, all of my students are much more engaged than last year's classes and we are mostly acclimated to the procedures and platforms that I am using for their work. I hope the experience is just as enjoyable for them as it is for me.
On a personal note, I had an epidural block last week and the pain has dissipated enough for me to move around more freely and have a hope that physical therapy will begin working more effectively for me. One of these days, it is my hope that my family will allow me to drive again. I did drive a little bit this weekend, and they are right about taking it easy while they are willing to chauffeur me around. Driving does present stresses on the spine that you don't notice unless you hurt yourself. I spent the long weekend catching up on my grading and I'm moving forward in a "caught up" position today. That changes quickly though, so I better get back on it.
My next challenge is lesson planning for 9-11. I have been perusing lessons plans and ideas on the web and I find myself tearing up as I preview videos, slideshows and interviews with survivors or the families of those who lost their lives that day. I'm wondering how I will ever make it through a solid day of lessons - it's still a bit too close for me. It's important though and we will mark the day with appropriate solemnity.
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