It is with an avalanche of emotions I write this post. After two amazing years of being the journalism teacher (and bus driver, forensics coach, theater director, public relations director, FBLA adviser, et cetera) at Western Plains High School in Ransom, Kan., I am leaving.
I have taken a new job at Sterling (Kan.) High School, which is a 2A school. There I will be teaching Junior English and Journalism.
As I said, I have loved my time in Ransom. The student newspaper has been amazing. The students have dove in and the community has responded fantastically. My students are amazing! They kicked butt in their first two years and won so many awards I can’t even list them all because of the space it would take.
I don’t want anyone to think I am abandoning WPHS. This opportunity dropped in my lap and was just too good to pass up. I didn’t reach the decision easily. It is a chance to further my career. But the tipping point was the fact that working at Sterling puts me two hours closer to my family. Family is very important to me, and I miss not being around for all the birthday parties and other gatherings. This move will help me be able to attend those again.
I am going to truly miss all of the people and students at WPHS, especially my journalism students. You guys rock, and I expect all of you to keep in touch. You have my email address and my cell phone number. Don’t be strangers. If you ever need anything, you know how to get in touch with me.
I hope everyone understands. I am truly going to miss the place. But it is time for me to move on. Just know I’m not leaving because of anything negative. Everything at WPHS has been great. I am just ready to face my next challenge in life and grow as an educator.
I know it won’t be easy, but my replacement will do fantastic. I’m sure. I’m going to be watching. I hope the tradition of excellence continues and exceeds that which was accomplished under my tutelage.
I will say I am beyond excited about this opportunity. It is going to be a blast! Great things are happening at Sterling too, and I can’t wait to be a part of that program and meet the amazing students there as well. I am so thankful that Sterling High School gave me this opportunity. I know I have big shoes to fill there, but I am going to give it my everything. I know I will succeed.
As sick as it sounds, I am kind of ready for school to start already. Don’t tell anyone, though. They’ll have me thrown in an insane asylum.
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