I have an announcement that in all honesty has made me very happy the last couple days. I think what it is I have found is the light at the end of the tunnel.
Wednesday was probably one of the most horrible days of my teaching career. Nothing in particular happened it was the cumulation of all things that was putting me over the edge. Administrators, kids, ADD, ADHD, 504's, World Civ, AP, parents, DEA, EAS, Praxis, late work, preparation, notes, senior-itis, stupidity, presentations, whining, sleeping, talking back, smelly kids, lazy kids, disinterested kids, seeking motivation, grading, essays, acting like I care.
I had had it.
I came home and complained about it to Brandon and he told me I wasn't going to bed until I applied for graduate school. So I did it. I have officially started the process of applying to the University of Utah. I still need to do a couple of other things to make it official (and, of course, be accepted) but I have applied to the 'U' and upon acceptance will attend this fall. This change in schedule will require that I reduce my teaching to part-time. I am a bit terrified to tell my principal, but I have to do it now. I must keep my AP classes. If they don't let me keep my AP classes if I go part time I WILL quit. Hopefully it won't come to that but I cannot do World Civ only all year. That would kill me. Literally.
What am I going into, you ask?
I've decided to get a Masters of Urban Planning. It may seem like a complete change in direction but hear my explanation. I have always been fascinated by cities and the way they are constructed. Walkable neighborhoods, revitalizing blighted areas, zoning, gentrification, historic structures, new structures. I really love it all. I walk around the avenues - or downtown - or in cute neighborhood centers and I constantly remark about how neat it is or how great it feels. I would love to have an education that will give me words and understanding of how a city's heart works. What makes a city live. I hope to be an integral part in the development of Salt Lake City from a good city to a great city. Obviously this path may not take me into working for Salt Lake City - but it would be great! But I'm excited to embark on the next phase of my life.
Thanks for voting in my poll concerning that - but 'dad' (other than Lacy) will have to wait - but maybe not too much longer. Going part time is half that effort too.
way to go wes, you will do great!!! what a fun thing to learn about. you should see how disorganized this town is, it is a mess.
ReplyDeleteunfortunately most suburbs lack any sort of planning. Ever been to West Jordan? Bleck. At least Bountiful, North Salt Lake and those were built up early so they were on a grid patter than works so much better than this giant boulevards that is the only route for all traffic from massive housing communities. I worry that Foxboro is going to have that problem as it grows. Endless dead ends and only one major road. Causes traffic issues.
ReplyDeleteGood thinking! Teenagers are wierd! ha ha I've been to West Jordan and ya, driving sucks there. But I kinda noticed it sucks driving anywhere these days. Unless its at 4 in the morning!
ReplyDeleteWeston, I'm so excited. Maybe you could take Garden City on as a school project?????
ReplyDeleteGarden City would be lots of fun!!! I'd totally do that!
ReplyDeleteYour last paragraph frightens me. And Patrick.
ReplyDeleteWes, You should always persue your dreams. Later in life you won't have to look back and say I should have done that. It takes courage to change your path in life. We are all proud of you and support you in your decision.
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