Last weekend was my meltdown. Last weekend I was done with it all, ready to quit, ready to throw up the white flag and surrender. So, while I was crying my eyes out, Mom said, "Let's focus on something else. What do you have to look forward to next week?" Well, that next week was … Continue reading Mocking Cancer
UAS
Back to School
It is the start of a new semester and the second half of the year. I was desperate to get back to school. I was desperate for routine and constant community. I was desperate for hallway hugs and gossip. For the smell of coffee and copy paper. I was desperate for the self-centered world of … Continue reading Back to School
Another Manic Monday
We are back to school! And I have never been more excited. I need routine and structure more than ever right now. Plus, I needed to get out of the freaking apartment. So, while everyone else dreaded coming back to school, I was bouncing with pleasure. Getting up at 6:00 was a bit of a … Continue reading Another Manic Monday
A Letter to STUCO and Mr. Davidson
Dear STUCO, I want you to know that I am so proud of you all. You have worked tirelessly for the past few months putting together a coffee house to remember. The decorations looked amazing! Unraveling those banners on the wall gave me goosebumps. And I know some of you put in way more hours … Continue reading A Letter to STUCO and Mr. Davidson
A UAS Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. What's not to love - lots of yummy food, family and friends gathered around a table for hours, the celebration of the joys of one's life. Over the years I have encountered Friendsgiving, Thirsty Thanksgiving, Freezing Thanksgiving, Misfits Thanksgiving, Argentina Asian Thanksgiving and Thanksgiving in July. No matter where I … Continue reading A UAS Thanksgiving
Are you going to work through chemo?
I cannot tell you how many people have asked the question if I am going to continue to work throughout chemo. And each time I look right at the person and say, "Of course!" But what about germs? Kids are gross! But what about the stress? Teachers have to make so many decisions and have … Continue reading Are you going to work through chemo?
Second Day / Second Year
I still cannot believe I am in my second year as an international teacher. Even more wild is this is my eighth year in a classroom! The second year means familiarity and comfort. The newness and nerves are no longer present. I know the routine and most of the kids. I have an established place … Continue reading Second Day / Second Year
International School Turnover
During my interview process for international teaching, I was frequently told the most difficult part about international schools is the turnover with both staff members and students. Because many of our students' families are in the country on contract, there is a definitive limit to their stay. At my old school, the school was a … Continue reading International School Turnover
Absolutely True Diary of a UAS Student
One of my favorite young adult novels is Sherman Alexie's The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian. It is a novel that discusses real issues surrounding Native American reservations and poverty gaps in education. It follows a young man who is desperate to belong to two cultures that don't fully embrace him. Going to English … Continue reading Absolutely True Diary of a UAS Student
Book Club: I’m Judging You
I love book clubs! I was in three different ones back in Nashville. So when Mariel suggested that I start a faculty one at UAS, I jumped on the opportunity to read interesting books and discuss them with my peers from all cultures and walks of life. I chose the satirical book I'm Judging You: The … Continue reading Book Club: I’m Judging You
Teach Abroad Coyle-Gamero 