"Why did you quit?"

Today, I had the opportunity to teach in my old fourth grade classroom. The room left little trace of the memories my students and I had once created in this space, but all was brought alive again as I greeted the class good morning and they responded back, "Good morning, Ms. Cimo!"*

I began to facilitate a collaborative sketch-art scene based on the information the students were feeding me about their fraction knowledge. They laughed as I personified the improper fraction and got enthusiastic when I asked what else we should add to the sketch. These moments remind me of why I love teaching. It's a true outlet for creativity, connection, and meaningful experiences.

I shared with the group the fact that I used to teach in this very room. They were surprised to hear this, as they were kindergarteners my final year as a fourth grade teacher. Few knew me as the previous Talented and Gifted teacher too. "Did you get promoted?""Why did you quit?"

I explained that I didn't view my changes as quitting... more like expanding. I explained how I love taking on new challenges. They inquired further. "But did you enjoy being a classroom teacher when you were one?" "Absolutely," I stated. "I loved my role as a classroom teacher even when I decided to take another position, and I loved my next position even when I decided to leave it for my current role as IB coordinator."

They seemed to want more, so I continued, "I'm grateful for every experience I've had. Leaving things you love is hard, but, when the time came, I made a change!" "Hey, that sort of rhymes!" one girl excitedly pointed out.

"Okay, one more question," a student who was perched closely up asked. "Will you leave education to try something else, like to go work for Chick-fil-A?"

I laughed at the Chick-fil-A suggestion and answered honestly. "I have been curious what it would be like to work in a different industry. I also wonder if I would be able to find an equal purpose doing something else!" "Don't leave us," they demanded. "At least until we graduate fifth grade!" One student reflected, "But all the students will tell her that, and she'll have to stay forever!"

I think about this comment, because it has been one that always makes me hesitate to move on. I love the work I get to do with kids, and, in some ways, I feel like I'm getting further away from it. I also realize these changes continue to lead me closer to new things I value and care about -- ones I have even dreamt about.

As I thank this group of students for welcoming me in, I step outside my old classroom and feel a sincere sense of appreciation for all the parts of myself that have grown and given heart and soul to teaching. When the time comes, I'll be ready to make the next change.

*We established a little mantra in my classroom where, after our initial whole-group greeting, I'd say, "Today we will choose kind," then the students would respond back, "and grow our minds!" Cheesy, but it set a positive intention each day.