Well, I did it! I turned in my letter of retirement and started the process of submitting all my KPERS information so I can be officially retired on June 1, 2017. This is quite a milestone, especially since I've been working either part time or full time since I was 14 years old.
What's it feels like
First of all, a great relief. I don't mean that I'm tired of what I do or dislike my job, I just am glad I was able to make all the decisions needed and commit to those choices (which can't be changed once your paper work is submitted) and get all the paperwork out of the way so I can enjoy the last of the school year with my students and co-workers.
What I've learned
1. The latest and greatest technology device won't solve all education's problems. The teacher is still the most effective tool in the classroom; hire carefully.
2. Being in control is a myth. How one handles, reacts, and responds to the situation makes all the difference.
3. Don't be afraid to admit something didn't work. It's all right to go back and redo, differently.
4. The best thing about being a teacher is BEING A TEACHER!
5. With age and experience comes wisdom --if you're doing it right!
6. Retirement is not an ending but a different beginning.
Congratulations to me and all my colleagues who are joining me on this new life adventure called retirement.
