I’m never really good at evaluating my own impact. Today in our Staff Development session, we looked at reflection and feedback, and as I was listening to different groups share their ideas, I was thinking about my year. I was thinking about the year I’ve had, and the the year I thought I would have 12 months ago. And I was wondering, how would I give myself feedback on the year that was?
I love Christmas … I’m such a fan of giving, of making people happy, and sharing joy. For me, the absolute bliss of receiving is never the gifts I get (although this year I got some super-cool presents from the wonderful people I work with!!) I LOVE reading what people have written in their cards to me. So for my “2012 Report Card” I’ve pulled my Christmas card comments from my wonderful colleagues. Their feedback about my role in their lives this year has been something of a revelation to me … I think I need to get a bit better at consciously reflecting on my impact, rather than just bouncing along day to day, trying to do the best I can and often feeling like I’m not quite getting there!!

So in the words of some wonderful people … My year.

– such and amazing person, professional and friend.
– an inspiration.
– dedicated professional and wonderful colleague.
– thankyou for your unwavering support and friendship. You always have my back, preempt my needs and just step in.
– an outstanding support and consummate professional.
– I watch with admiration the enormous work you have done – we need more teachers like you!
– an educator who strives to improve her practice and who sees the ‘big picture’. We are richer for having you with us!
– the most giving, sharing colleague it’s been my privilege to work with. I’m blown away by how generous you are with your time and talents, always focusing on what is in the best interests of our students.
– the most supportive teacher I’ve ever had. Can I be in your class next year? I’ll bring chocolates every day!
– because of you, I know I could do anything with my life. Because of you, I’m going to be a teacher.
– always act like you love me, even when I know that yesterday you probably wanted to choke me. I’m pretty naught sometimes, but you don’t make a big thing out of it – thanks for that miss! (well not love but you know … )
– you have inspired me to believe that I my influence is not defined by my title, but by my actions. Your actions reflect your passionate commitment to education, and I’m so grateful.
– Hey miss. I don’t hate english as much as I did and I’m even putting those things in my shorter words so you don’t have a meltdown and go off your head at me about why punctuation matters. Happy?

I’m humbled and overwhelmed by these lovely words, and the many that were spoken to me as well, as we said goodbye for another year. It’s a lovely way to end what has been a difficult year for me, both personally and professionally – to focus on the positive impacts I have had. To think about the many wonderful achievements I have made, and the difference that I make in the lives of other people. That’s why I love my job, and I wouldn’t do anything else!!