school – Moler's Musings

This year brings something new. After a long run in public education, I have made the switch to a small private school, St. Ursula Villa. I will be teaching 6th, 7th, and 8th grade social studies. The change already feels right. The school is close to everything I do, where I live, where I coach tennis, where life actually happens. If I need to run up to school, it will not feel like an all-day event. That alone is a big deal.

More than that, I will be able to be involved with school activities in a way that makes sense for me. Smaller class sizes, a supportive staff, and students who are eager to learn. It is a refreshing combination.

Why the Switch?

Honestly, it was time. I found myself saying things I never thought I would say. I was stressed out, going through the motions, just trying to survive the day. My great friend and co-author, Dr. Scott Petri, once told me, “Moler, your worst day of teaching is someone’s best day.” The problem? I was having way too many of those worst days.

When I interviewed for this position, the principal asked me why I applied. My answer came out without hesitation: “Because I miss teaching.” I was tired of babysitting. That pretty much sums up where I was at and why I needed a reset.

Leaving public education is not something I ever imagined doing, but the reality was clear. I needed a break. I needed to find joy in teaching again.

Looking Ahead

I am excited to start fresh. A new environment. Smaller classes. Great colleagues. Great kids. I can feel myself wanting to be more creative again, not just checking boxes.

That brings me to this blog. For years, I have written The Week That Was to reflect on my teaching. But writing about three different grade levels every week? That might be too much, both for me and for anyone reading. So I am rethinking the format.

Right now, I am leaning toward something like this: