Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Why Can't I "JUST SAY NO!"

So I requested a new position at work for next year. It is a preschool position working only with 3-5 year olds who qualify for speech and language services. They come, generally, twice a week for about 2 hours each time and it's set up more like a "class" than a typical speech session. There are 3 classes a day for 4 days a week, with the other day for testing and IEP meetings. It is a position with an SLP in the class (me) and a paraprofessional to help. Well..... I got it!! I am SOOO excited to get back to my age group that gets me the most excited in the world of speech. Before I came to the school district I was working ECI (Early Childhood Intervention) in Virginia serving birth-3 year olds. I still miss those days, and honestly, if it wasn't for the school hours I would go back to that in a heartbeat. So....this is the next closest thing with better hours (and no driving which is also a blessing) to be with my own 3 kids.

When bargaining for this position, I had to make a choice to take this program or to continue to be the district "lead" for speech. I was not being paid to be a lead, so there was no salary difference and it meant getting back to what I loved...so of course....I chose the preschool program. So.....today....in typical school district fashion....the plot changes....here is how the conversation goes....

Director: So....I really need someone next year to be our "go-to" person for speech questions. I can't leave that all up to our co-ordinator (who has no speech background) and you have done an outstanding job this year....

Me:...So....what are you saying?? (Thinking: crap- if they take this preschool position back I am going to have an absolute cow)

Director: Tell me what you didn't like about being lead....

Me: blah...blah....blah...blah....blah....(use your imagination....I don't enjoy people management is the bottom line)

Director: Well, we really need someone we can ask questions from and it really needs to be you...

Me: Hmmm.....any plans for memorial day weekend???

Later....I email them saying I will consider it IF they let me draft out what responsibilities I will retain and what responsibilities I will delegate. I am crazy and can't say no. Sometime I think it would be eaiser to think like my husband or my dad and bluntly say "Sorry, I'm sure you can find someone else to do that."

Loyalty- we all feel it sometimes and we can't quite figure out why. Today I felt it and still can't put my finger on why. I don't think it is an ego thing for me- I think it's that "I must help if they need me" complex. I have suffered from that for many many years....know any cures?

What can't you say no to?

Sunday, May 4, 2008

Back from the dead...

Whew...what a stressful, busy couple of months. Here's the brief summary:
  • Beach trip was FANTASTIC!!! Thanks Uncle Kenyon for your bed and breakfast- we will be returning!!
  • Matt turned 2!! He is living it out in typical wild child fashion. He is making two year olds everywhere proud...and of course....smiling the entire time no matter what he is doing.
  • Work...work...work...the 10% crazy parents can really make the job tough...hoping for some changes to my position next year to alleviate the stress!!!!
  • Registered Katelynn for Kindergarten- I can't believe she is that big!!
  • Well visits for all 3- that is always quite an adventure. I knew I was in trouble when the receptionist asked if anyone was helping me out...
  • Looking forward to the end of the crazy school year train and the peaceful lazy days of summer!!