This is actually a Facebook post, but I am sharing it on my blog too:
So long, FCPS!
This is an unusual Labor Day for me. For most of my life, tomorrow was back-to-school for me as a student, parent of students, or as a teacher, but not this year. I recently retired from Fairfax County Public Schools as my husband and I prepare to move within the next year. Schools hold a special place in my heart. Education challenged, even stressed me at times, but I loved teaching. Amazing teachers and administrators, delightful students and kind parents enriched my work.
I began my elementary teaching career immediately after college, took a break from employment during our child-rearing years, and returned to public education in 2005 as an elementary ESOL teacher (English to Speakers of Other Languages). This past year, I took a one-year position as my “victory lap” only to end “limping to the finish line” as we were unexpectedly thrown into Distance Learning. It was huge and uncharted for all of us, kids and parents too, but we managed to “carry on” – a theme I had selected for myself prior to the pandemic.
So, good-bye FCPS! After 40 years around schools, I exit with fond memories and satisfaction. As I said, my colleagues were often outstanding and inspiring, and I wish all of you well. A Virginia Tech professor once called teachers, “the salt of the earth” and you are! Stay wise; you know what to do.
“Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Proverbs 16:3 – Yes, He did!
I am so proud of you. So many years and it’s finally time for YOU! I don’t mean it to be in a selfish way, I kind of discovered myself once I retired.
I absolutely loved teaching, every ounce I had went into it because I loved it so much. I loved the kids, loved their “discovery faces” loved being with them. I treasure every moment I had.
Now that I am retired from it, I am discovering myself and am having fun doing it. I am enjoying my own interests, spending more time with my family, and enjoying helping others through volunteer work.
I really loved the teaching part of my life and now I am enjoying the “retired” part of my life. I wish you the same.
Beth
Thank you so much, Beth. I hope to see you soon!
Brenda, you have blessed so very many with your dedication to teaching. The first year I retired and no longer had children in school was very disorienting. September was especially strange. Today I helped my daughter Hannah finish preparing her classroom in VT for the first day of school tomorrow. I enjoy hearing about her students and those of my daughter Eva in Edmond, OK. Eva teaches public 3rd grade and Hannah has a 3/4 combo class in a Christian school. I’m so glad to have two daughters who have chosen to follow in my footsteps.