> As those of you who don't know me have probably guessed, my profession is teaching.
>
> Aside from Howard, I don't think there are any other current or retired teachers who post here. Therefore, you're a perfect demographic for a question I've long wondered about.
>
> Every year, as August comes to a close, and the impending school year draws nearer, I feel a combination of panic and excitement. Panic, often, because it seems I haven't completed near the stuff I wanted to over the summer. Summer is the time most teachers I know work on curriculum, update certifications, and read all the books they meant to about current educational theory. (I like to squeeze in camping with my family and a theatre trip, too). I'd be lying, though, if I wasn't excited about going back. I love my job, and have a wonderful staff with whom I am privileged to work. I don't see any of these people over the summer, so September is like a lovely reunion every year. There's also the mandatory trip for school supplies. Sometimes I think my love of stationery stores is a large part of the reason I became a teacher! ;-)
>
> I've spent every single August of my life since starting school this way. When I graduated from university, I was lucky enough to find a job right away, so I've never had a "year off." Even when I had my children, I always worked in Adult Education at night.
>
> So, my question, is (students, you may not be able to answer this neutrally), is how do you feel about the end of summer? Are the bittersweet emotions I feel as the seasons change shared by everyone, or are they a product of my profession? My husband says he feels the same way as I do, but has little choice, living with a teacher and two students. I'd love to know how others feel.
>
> te "bought WAY too many Post-It's already" ach

I'm a student, and I, too, have mixed feelings towards the end of the summer, but not for the same reasons. First of all, let me say that I am going from middle school to a high school which is not my home high school, so I will not be re-unioning with most of my friends. But I still look forward to it. The high school that I will be attending is very challenging, arguably the most prestigious in Virginia. It will be interesting to face the challenges of a demanding high school while meeting new people. I honestly don't know exactly what this coming school year will reap, but I do know that I will have fun in the sowing. I really feel that I'll enjoy this year. I look forward to the first day, and the second, and the entire year. Both the teachers and the other students seem very nice. Almost everyone that I talk to says that it is challenging, but worth it.

The downside is the old, traditional student's "Oh, summer's over, and I'll have to go to school and do homework and not be able to stay home and play computer all day anymore" gripe. I really do feel bad about this-it means I won't be able to spend all day with you wonderful rinkies!

kniv"Oh, and what grade level(s) and/or subject(s) do you teach, teach?"etsil