This is a new year. A new beginning. And things will change.

I have mixed feelings about this post. I am ecstatic because one of my dreams is coming true. I have a special place deep rooted within for individuals with special needs (especially autism) that I can't fully explain and others can't fully understand unless they too have it.

I am also deep-down-in-the-dumps-depressed. *Sad because I will be leaving everything I know in the teaching world-from student teaching my school has molded and supported me. *Desperate because I know I won't see many of my students and former students ever again. I want so badly to see them continue to grow and bloom into who they will be. *Devastated because I am passing up an awesome opportunity to take over the jv basketball program at the high school across the street. *Guilty because I feel I am letting my K team down.

Teaching is a work of the heart. Unlike so many other professions it is impossible not to become emotionally attached to those you pour so much of yourself into. I know everything I'm feeling is normal. And, I also know that as the school year wraps up and the summer begins I will place Clymore in a special compartment of my heart right next to the core. I will take so many experiences and friendships and cherish them forever. Words certainly cannot express how grateful I am for the K and 3rd grade teams that I have worked with, as well as the many related service providers and special education staff who have been an integral part of my room for the last 3 years. When I am having a rough day, which I'm afraid may happen often in the future (fear of the unknown) I will pull memories from that spot and remember those who taught me, had faith in me, told me when I was wrong--using the strength and words of my friends to get through whatever comes my way, if only until the next day.

I have accepted a position in Harrisonburg City for next year as a special education teacher. The position is new so I don't have a lot of details, but I do know that I will be working with students who have high-functioning autism. This means I will have my own classroom; however, my students will also go into the general education setting some so I will be co-teaching with teachers in multiple grade levels. This school is part of the Shenandoah Valley Regional Program for Special Education-students from Augusta, Harrisonburg, Page Co, Rockingham Co, Shenandoah Co, and Staunton can come to this school. In addition it is a K-4 school serving students in Harrisonburg City. Students with and without disabilities making progress together. The climate of the school is warm and inviting and the administration seems superb.

So, as difficult as it is to leave my little comfort bubble I'm ready to work 2 minutes from my gym, 5 minutes from JMU, and 13 minutes from my apartment. I'm ready to use the skills I gained at JMU to help students learn. I'm ready to be the change I want to see in the world. As I have "talk-texted" friends to tell them about this new opportunity I know there's no coincidence that each time I say "autism class" it auto corrects to awesome class.
Excited.Terrified.Moving Forward. Being an Eagle. Making A Difference.