You know that trend where they record teachers before the first day and after the first day?
Imagine this video of me, if you can.
Usually the video is of the teacher in their class – but who are we kidding – I will not be stopping to take a video this morning.
So.
Before:
Hi! I’m Ms. Gabriel. I teach second-grade – well, I will. This is me before the first day of school.
I’m in my pajamas, my heartless curler is still in, I am finishing my coffee. My mug choice was intentional. It says teacher teacher teacher teacher teacher teacher teacher.
I don’t want to forget who I am.
I woke up early, remembered that I hadn’t printed out my class lists yet. Actually, I remembered that last night, also remembering that I still don’t actually know how to take lunch count.
My bag is packed, but not my lunch.
I know what t-shirt I’m wearing, but not what pants.
My middle child is awake and ready, but not my youngest.
My plans are done, but not really since first day of school plans are a somewhat hilarious thing.
I keep remembering Natalie Louis at a Phonics Institute. She reminded us that on the first day of school the kids should leave feeling lucky to have you as their teacher, maybe knowing a class song, and they should be excited to come back the next day.
So inspirational. But also, maybe a tall order.
Only time will tell.
……..
After:
Hi! I’m Ms. Gabriel. I taught second-grade today. This is me after the first day of school.
I’m back in my pajamas.
I left my laptop on the dining room table.
I made myself take a break.
I hope this break turns into going to bed soon.
On a Thought 
Happy first day of school! Happy new school year! Second grade is a sweet age to teach. I have no doubt that you will have humour and joy in your days. And it seems that you already know about the importance of taking breaks and resting in the evening. The images of “first day before and after” I haven’t seen, but I have seen the memes “start/end of the school year” and these make me nod and laugh.
Happy first day of school! I hope you have a fantastic year!
Ona, happy first day! I love that advice Natalie Louis gave. I hope it worked for you and your class! You are living in exhausting times, I remember. I hope you slept well last night.
Hahaha I teach college and your before sounds a lot like mine. Every time I’m surprised I need the roster, etc.
Your after also sounds like mine. I had to go to work for a meeting and needed the whole rest of the day to decompress.
I’m glad you’re taking care of yourself. I hope you have a wonderful school year!