Sunday, January 10, 2010

TOY Story- A Lesson About Connectivity

When asked what the best part of the past year has been as a State Teacher of the Year, my answer comes easily and earnestly ~ meeting so many remarkable teachers. The camaraderie, collegiality, compassion, and expertise made a life-long impact on me. The words I share with my students, "I am so much better for knowing you," are so true of these teachers as well.
I will always remember the excitement blended with apprehension as we all met for the first time in Dallas last January. I wrestled with my own insecurity about not feeling that I had the level of expertise, life experiences, or credentials to be part of such a select group.
From the moment I stepped off the plane in Dallas and into the van with seven other TOYs - I knew my worries were unfounded. I was instantly among friends ~ and the rest of the year's experiences confirmed that early realization completely.
This five-minute video is a tribute to the many beautiful people I met. It encapsulates a year of learning, growing, and sharing together. It is my TOY Story.

2 comments:

Unknown said...

Not just a TOY story, this is a moment in time that will impact all we become as we return 100% to doing what we do best. Our reflections on this experience are properly centered on what is right with education. It is the dedication of scores of teachers who are driven by the conviction of determining and meeting the needs of our students with whom we share our title. We represent so many more and are blessed to be the 09 TOYs. Thanks for the memories.

Deborah Tonguis said...

Aww...Beth! Thank you so much for letting me relive our service year all over again. Seeing those familiar, smiling faces makes me yearn for another reunion. You are so good to have encapsulated our year like that!
Miss and love you, Beth...keep in touch.
Debbie from Louisiana