Reflection #10

Now that I have gotten into a rhythm and used to things more, I have decided to write a reflection every other week instead of each week. It's amazing how much of this job is different than what I expected and how many things I would do a little differently, even though I thought I had some good experiences prepping me for a position like this.

Budget: I had no idea how much time and energy goes into the budget process. I spent the majority of my first month on the job ordering supplies, following up on orders, or checking in orders. It isn't a particularly difficult job, but it does take up a lot of time...especially when it comes to science supplies. I have already started on next year's budget, but I feel like after the first year is over, it will be much easier.

Procedures: I guess it is a product of spending my whole life in the same school system, but I really thought most things were done the same at every school, just with different people doing them. I have found that the people in charge can decide what things get done and how those things get done. I think some things are way better and some things are not quite as good, but I am definitely learning a lot being in a new district for the first time.

People: I think the biggest struggle I have had so far is with my patience. I haven't lost my patience or anything, but I have to keep reminding myself that all the great relationships I built at Millville didn't happen overnight...in fact, some of them took years to develop. One of my old bosses told me that 90% of his job was dealing with people. Even though I've only been at this for a couple of months, I couldn't agree more. I work with some amazing teachers who are open for suggestions and want to be the best they can for their students. I get frustrated with the feeling out process we all have to go through even though I know there is very little I can do about it besides let it run its course. Even little things like the e-mails I send are different. I got heckled for being too wordy and adding a lot of fluff to my e-mails at Millville and now I am hearing that my e-mails are too direct and to the point at Cedar Creek...maybe one day I'll find the right combination, but who knows!

Personal: I really enjoyed having 7 of the past 9 days with no school and spending it with Dominick. The little guy is growing up so fast and I love every minute I spend with him...hopefully he doesn't grow out of the cute stage too soon. Robby and I also got to hang out with the admin team and their families outside of school for a couple of hours Friday night which was cool. That group is so close and I'm glad they are letting me in...even if Parker still thinks I harass him too much.