A New Challenge
This year, my principal asked me to move from teaching second grade to third grade in February. The reason? To help provide stronger instruction and, hopefully, boost test scores. It was a big shift, and I’d be lying if I said I didn’t have some doubts.
I love teaching, but when I heard the request, I felt a mix of emotions—honored that my principal trusted me with this responsibility, but also a little overwhelmed. Could I really make a difference? Would I be able to give these students what they needed?
To make the transition work, I had to teach two second-grade classes and two third-grade classes each day. Balancing both grade levels was an adjustment, but I grew to enjoy it and it helped give me a unique perspective on what my 2nd graders needed to learn for next year.
A Lesson in Trust
Around that time, I was in the middle of a Bible study on the Book of Jonah. If you’ve ever read Jonah’s story, you know he ran from what God was calling him to do. He doubted, resisted, and even sat outside the city, frustrated with how things turned out. As I read, I couldn’t help but reflect on my own path. For a while, I thought my purpose was shifting toward helping and molding teachers, guiding them to grow in their own practice. But as I sat with this transition to third grade, I realized something—my focus and path have always been in helping kids.
My role isn’t just about boosting scores; it’s about providing great instruction, creating a structured environment, and making my classroom a warm and inviting space where students can thrive. That’s where my heart is. That’s where I feel called.
Embracing the Journey
Since stepping into this new role, I’ve seen so much growth—not just in my students, but in myself. I’ve learned to trust that I am where I need to be, even when the path isn’t always clear.
Maybe you’ve had a moment like this, where you questioned your role or your ability. If so, let me encourage you—sometimes, the challenge in front of you isn’t a roadblock; it’s a redirection, a reminder, or even an answer to a prayer you didn’t know you were praying.
The school year is over, and I enjoyed this season of teaching both second and third grade with open hands. I don’t know what grade I’m teaching next year, but I’m learning that trust—just like teaching—is a daily practice.
Wishing you peace and balance today,
