The End?-Or maybe it is just the beginning!

Yesterday, I received--after a long day of teaching and meetings--my cap and gown. It was a moment of excitement and relief. My four year old thought it was so incredibly awesome and then said I could be a wizard for Halloween next year. While her moment of naive cuteness was almost too much to resist, I can't help but think how thankful I am to have completed this journey of graduate school.

I am worn out! Work, school, and family have challenged me during the past 18 months. I am in need of rest. But more than that, I am thankful that I have gained the relationships of some wonderful men and women, who have friended me in our graduate school experience whether due to group assignments or general common ground. My network of friends has grown significantly in a few short months. Whether we join in our nightly Skype meetings over the latest homework, or meet at lunch on the weekend for the fun of it, I value the moments of my degree program.

My course work has given me a new direction in my classroom, and my career goals. I feel lucky to act as a mentor to fellow teachers in the use of technology. I am excited to share research backed knowledge. I am thankful to understand the work of an administrator.

Does receiving my cap and gown signify the end. Maybe not. As I cross the stage in December with my friends and cohort members, I am finishing school, not my education. I am ready to continue learning in my career, and hope that I can be a facilitator that others look to, trust, and appreciate.