First day at Franklin

I started my new job today. Franklin Elementary is not Fawcett, as I was reminded several times today, but it is a mere 2.1 miles from my house, which just begs to be a bicycle commute to work on nicer days.

I met all of the kids in my classroom & I like them. Even the toughest ones. And I didn't get bit or pinched once. But these battle scars may be inevitable as soon as I relax enough to feel like I am doing a good job. A little pinch of reality is sure to follow. But for now I have cat-like reflexes and have my guard up.

I really like the program that Heather, the classroom teacher, is in the process of setting up for all of the kids. I am hoping that as I learn & I do have a lot to learn, with these routines the kids will develop skills and I can make a difference in their lives. I am looking forward to this becoming natural to me so I don't have to constantly think so hard. I am also looking forward to getting to know the classroom staff, the staff in the other autism classes & the school staff. Tomorrow is afterschool volleyball so hopefully I will learn a few new names & have some faces to got with them.