Independence Day – Submitting My Letter of Retirement/Resignation

This week has been THE week.  On Tuesday, I met with my principal and on Friday, I met with the Human Resources people and SUBMITTED MY RETIREMENT LETTER!  Those who have done this can attest to what a freeing experience this can be.  There comes a feeling of elation that cannot be compared to anything else.

I should know.  I’ve done this twice before.  Back in 1981 I left my first career to stay at home and take care of my two daughters.  And, in 1998, I retired from my second career and finished preparing for my transition to full-time teaching.  In each instance, that moment when you walk out that door for the last time can be extraordinarily liberating.

I still have five wonderful months remaining in the classroom.  I DO love what I do.  However, I am looking forward to changing how I interact with students by transitioning into substitute teaching without the added responsibilities of prepping, grading, parent contact, and administrative minutia.  I love to teach.  I am less fond of the other “stuff” that has complicated my professional life as an educator.

There is a lesson in all of this.  I often tell my students about their future in a world where they many have 5-6 careers before they retire.  I sometimes think that I have been a little ahead of my time.  And…best of all…the last chapter has yet to be written.