There are certain things in an educators life that have more meaning simply because of our line of work. One of those things is the months of summer. June has a special meaning to us educators. It has many different meanings and nuances. It means the close of another school year. It means saying goodbye to some people, staff, students and parents. It means the end of one of the craziest and busiest times of the year. It also means new beginnings. June, July and August are the time when we prepare for a new school year. We spend time reviewing what happened last year and where we can do better next year, both as a school and as a leader. Yes, there is something special and meaningful about the summer months to educators.
I also find that there is a definite rejuvenation for me personally. But, I have to be honest. By the time that sacred month of June rolls around, I am exhausted. I need for those little darlings that I care so much for to go away for a while. Don’t get me wrong. I love what I do. I love my job, my staff, my students and my school. But after 10 months of running every minute, putting out dozens of fires daily and generally trying to keep the ship moving in the right direction, I need some down time.
This down time usually lasts for about a month. I get in a vacation, go to a conference or two, and then settle into a quiet, virtually empty building. It feels good…different, but good. For about 4 weeks. Then I get bored. All the hiring is done. The opening work week schedule is complete. Master schedule is finished. Once the building is cleaned from top to bottom, we are basically ready to open. Then the waiting begins. This is the time I hate the most. I get very anxious and can’t wait to have people back in the building. I miss my staff. I miss the day to day craziness. And I REALLY miss the kids. It is time for summer to be over and get back to work. Until next June.
A Principal's Life 