Tomorrow I have another first. After twelve years at
Stafford Middle School in Plattsburgh, NY, I accepted a teaching position in
North Carolina. Soon I will teach 7th grade students in the Chapel
Hill-Carrboro School District at Culbreth Middle School.
Last Thursday, the other new teachers and I started school
early and received such a warm welcome. From the opening gathering with the
superintendent to lunch with the principal; from the custodians helping us
prepare our rooms to the organized binder filled with information; from the box
of supplies prepared for each of us to the gathering with our mentors at the
principal’s home, we have been made to feel valued and welcomed.
In the morning, I’ll drive to my new school and meet the
entire faculty and staff. Once again I’ll put into practice my “new kid”
survival techniques. If you know a new kid or are going to be one yourself this
fall, here’s how I do it.
1) Smile – I keep a smile on my face even when I
feel nervous, scared, or lonely. It is much easier for others to talk to me if
I look approachable.
2) Learn Names – I borrow a yearbook from the
previous year, write down names when I’m in meetings, and study the nametags on
doors. Then when I talk to people I try to use their name in conversation, as
well as use little pneumonic devices to help me.
3) Be Kind – Is there someone who needs help?
Appreciate what others do for you.
Give honest compliments. Positive
energy is the best kind.
4) Be Open - Let others get to know you. Go outside
your comfort zone. Volunteer. Raise your hand. Participate in conversations.
Talk.
5) Listen – Pay attention to what other people say.
Learn what you can about their lives and hobbies. Take an honest interest in
them.
For those of you who are in the same situation as me: Have a
great time with your new beginning! I love to explore new places, make new
friends, and learn about new ideas.
Throw your arms wide open ~ live your life with joy.
Throw your arms wide open ~ live your life with joy.
