Reaching Out

So today my goal was to reach out to the presidents of the Medford Education Foundation (MEF) and Home School Association (HSA). Hopefully, our three organizations can work together for the sake of our students and again,another way to mend fences. I don't think the fences were broken per say, but it's nice to think we can work with them by offering our assistance and perhaps having a liaison on each of the boards. Both organizations do so much for our students that it's only right that we do things together. Another way we are reaching out is that the amazing secretary of the MEA has made a facebook page for our association. I feel this is a way of reaching out to our members and moving, at last, into this century. These steps, little by little, I hope, will turn out to be positive things our association can do.

Day One July 1

July 1 starts my two-year term as president of my local teachers' association. I am not without a little stress and a bit afraid, but I hope it will make me a more organized, better prepared, and better person. So, what did I do my first day? I went into the lion's den. With the support of a young parent who has four children, I went to a local park to help some dedicated people clean up the park. I take my third-graders to the park as part of a field trip so I felt a sense of responsibility for being there. I also knew that there were people there who have been very vocal against teachers and the association in my town. I introduced myself as a teacher, who did not live in town, and was greeted, by most, with a thank you for coming.There was only one gentleman who wanted to have a "long talk" with me once he found out I was a teacher. I gently told him I would be happy to meet or speak with him at another time, but not today. Today was for surviving the heat and helping the park.I was glad I went, but also noticed when, on line thank-yous were given, not once did it mention that a teacher actually helped. Maybe it was just an over-sight on their part. I hope so. Next, I had a massage and facial. This is something I also want to remember to do this term...make time for myself at least once a month. I will try to do this on the first of each month...if I can afford it. SO, so far it has been okay. I am hoping our reaching out to the community is the way to go, as I can think of nothing better than to get the people of the town on our side. Any other suggestions are greatly appreciated.