Let's Get it Started In Here

If you're a regular reader, you'll have already noticed that I'm a bit late in posting this morning. Today marks the first day of summer break. It's the day/week/month that every teacher lives for. I slept in a few minutes before catching up on everything that's been waiting for me since last summer's break.

Truth!

While it might appear that teacher's get a three-month paid holiday, don't be fooled; I get paid for 183 days. In years past, teachers in my district had to save enough money from their monthly paycheck to live on over the summer. Not long ago, my district decided to do it for us. Each month a portion of my check is withheld and then doled out to me in July and August. So no, teachers don't actually get "paid" in the summer.

Every teacher I know works far more hours than we get paid for. Myself, I arrive at school an hour early every single day, and quite often I work late. I also work through lunch. That means I "donate" at least 2 hours a day for 180 school days. After some quick math, that comes out to 45 days of unpaid work. So much for a "paid summer vacation."

The kids get 10 weeks of break, but I'll start back after 9 weeks in order to get my room set up and make lesson plans. Over the summer I am also taking a 45-hour class in June (that cost $343) and another two days of classes offered by my district in August, all for "professional development."

Even more truth!

"The lady doth protest too much, methinks." I do tend to get a little defensive at this time of year. Teachers have become the public's favorite punching bag. Everyone knows a teacher, and everyone can share a horror story of how their child was tragically mistreated by said teacher. All I can say is that it's a tough job and kids aren't always truthful.

My every day.

Moving on though. I plan to spend the next few weeks catching my breath, riding my horses, and eventually gearing up for the 2019/2020 school year. If you have kids, enjoy your summer!