A Note From Another New River Colleague!

Hello! What an exciting experience we are about to embark. When Michael asked me in a three-minute phone conversation if I wanted to go to Jordan, I immediately said sure. He said we would be going to a teaching academy; we’d be gone for 2 weeks, and work would pay for the trip. He then told me he’d call me back in an hour, and needed a definite answer.

 Seriously, could I possibly say no to this amazing experience?

I’m not sure why or how it happened exactly, but I do believe it happened to me for a very good reason. And, after reading all the posts on the website, I do believe this may be one of the best experiences in my life!

At first, because everything happened so quickly, I wasn’t really sure what was getting ready to take place in Jordan. I just knew I was going. This opportunity came to me at a busy time, and I had no idea the work it involved. So, when Michael gave me our first assignment, I totally felt overwhelmed. I became a little scared. It wasn’t the work load he gave us, but the type of work he required. I absolutely love my job, and I think I am good at it. But, until Michael asked me to be a part of this, I have never had anyone ask me to share my deepest thoughts and ideas on what I do every day. What came so naturally for me, suddenly became foreign. It had been a while since I had to express my feelings and really reflect on what I do and what I believe. This took time for me.

Thanks to Michael’s patience with me, I am now on board. You are an astounding bunch of teachers, and  I am grateful that I will be a part of this academy! I haven’t interacted with any of you, yet, but I already feel as though I know you. As I read your posts, I see we have a lot in common. I am so looking forward to sharing ideas with other enthusiastic, open-minded teachers!

I look forward to truly getting to know you guys, as I have a feeling we will, very soon.

Rachel Kelly