New Kids on the Block

So let me be forthcoming and admit that I know not ONE single lyric from a New Kids on the Block song. (Hey, I was born in '87. It's not my fault. lol) The title actually popped in my head as I was thinking about a lyric from a song of the early 2000's group, LFO (I know you're singing it right now if you're a true LFO fan) lol. However to the NKOTB fans, please know that the lyric by LFO specifically stated "New Kids on the Block had a bunch of hits." So, you're welcome. lol. But seriously, the title of this blog post came to me as I sat and watched the 200+ new teachers that were in attendance at new teacher district orientation. We were the "new kids on the block," so to speak. If you don't follow me on Instagram (@faithfamilyandfifth), you may not know that I am headed to a new district this year. While it's my ninth year of teaching, I am feeling like a brand new teacher all over again as I get to know the culture of the district and school. I was slightly nervous....okay, who am I kidding. I was VERY nervous (lol); but as I scanned the room looking at all the faces and engaged in the excitement of the presenters, I felt my anxiousness begin to melt away. From the greeters when walking in, to the ease of registration, I felt a sense of peace. I am so excited to have this peace because it has certainly been a journey.

Watching the administrators greet their newly hired staff and the new teachers converse in their seats got me to thinking about not only the first year teachers, but the other educators like me who are embarking on new journeys, searching for fresh starts, and looking for peace as well. I am by no means an expert, but I wanted to share some things I thought could help with the transition to a new place. It can be super scary beginning new things, but I also see it as a way of cleansing. There's something about a fresh start that just makes me want to take a deep breath and relax. lol. Corny I know, buuuut if you know me in real life (and if you continue to follow my blog), I LIVE for a corny joke. lol. Let's get started.

1. Be positive- Let's lay it out on the table. There WILL be things you just aren't going to like or feel like doing in your new position. Maybe your new school has a different procedure for making copies that has you thinking, "what in the world?" Or maybe you have to be in a classroom that is.... uh, not so easy on the eyes (lol). Being negative, griping,  and complaining is only going to make the year rough. Instead, try to look at things from a different perspective. I know it can be easier said than done, but how different your outlook could be if you just think and speak positive. It's so very easy to get caught up in griping and complaining. I have certainly fallen into this trap before. However acknowledging that you need to "check yourself" is the first step. It's never too late to think positive. :)

2. Smile- Please understand that this goes for the folks that have new people coming to your school, as well as those going to a new school. Make people feel welcome! And if you're new, act like you want to be there! lol. The district staff was so welcoming at orientation and the people I have met so far from my new school have been nothing short of amazing. I know, every day won't be sunshine, poppies and pink fluffy bunnies, but the fact of the matter is if YOU smile, you will make yourself feel good and know that you tried. A very wise person once said "You're never fully dressed without a smile." lol

3. Be teachable- On day two of orientation, our agenda mentioned that we had a keynote speaker from 8:30-10:30. The topic? Engaging students. I can't lie. I immediately got annoyed that we had to sit and listen to someone speak for 2. LONG. HOURS. Especially going into my ninth year and having to listen to someone tell me how to engage students. Are you KIDDING me?! lol. But if I'm honest, that was one of the BEST keynote speakers I have EVER had the pleasure of listening to! I left that session with several new strategies I wanted to try. You see, I made a conscious decision to take it all in and "be teachable." It also helped that she, herself, was super engaging and HILARIOUS. lol. Being teachable doesn't mean you have to try everything new under the sun, but it does mean that you have to have an open mind. The saying "you can't teach an old dog new tricks" is definitely not true in the profession of teaching. It's no secret that teachers attend a LOT of professional development. It's also no secret that the very mention of PD can be the furthest thing from thrilling. lol. However I challenge you open your minds and try at least one new thing you learned at PD this school year.

4. Be You- Always. Period. There's no one else like you. While you may be joining a new school environment, don't lose yourself trying to fit in. Your personality could be the very thing that your school needs to increase a sense of community and boost moral. Don't worry about impressing anyone, you are enough.

So to my New Kids on the Block this year, whether you are a veteran teacher at a new school or a brand-spanking-new first year teacher, go be great and make your lessons "a bunch of hits." (See what I did there. lol)

Until next time,
Nylor

P.S.- New to a new school or district this year? Let me know in the comments. How do you cope with new experiences?