Some times, the serendipitous nature of the universe awards you with an invaluable gift of a lifetime. For me, that gift was being partnered with a Ellen Lisi, a mentor long before mentors were “invented”, and a treasured friend.
In 1987, my first year as an elementary teacher, Ellen became my partner teacher in second grade. She had been my own child’s second grade teacher, so I already knew something about her. Kind, empathetic, a patient teacher, Ellen was loved by her students. She understood and nurtured those fortunate to be part of her classroom in ways that were fun and welcoming. And so, when I was assigned as a second grade teaching partner to Ellen, I knew I had won the teaching lottery; little did I realize how Ellen’s influence would stay with me throughout my own teaching career and beyond.
Mentoring wasn’t an actual thing when I began teaching; a new teacher might truly end up with no one to talk with when things didn’t go according to plan. But sometimes one lucks out, as I did, with a teaching partner or nearby classroom colleague willing to listen to frustrations, dry tears, set an example, even when the newbie has strong, mostly theoretical, ideas. I’m sure some of mine were eye-roll worthy. In that first year, I had the privilege of developing as a teacher from a trusted and respected friend, emphasis on friend.
Ellen became ill over the last few years and the cruel progression of dementia stole her personality from her family and friends. The loss is deeply felt, but there is consolation in remembrance of things I learned from Ellen. Here are a few that stay with me:
I learned that back-to-school teacher shopping is best done in a group. Oh how we had fun on our jaunts to teaching supply stores, loading up bags of bulletin board sets and decor!
I learned that teaching friendships can and should also include excursions outside of the work day. Going to a movie with friends after a long week makes everything all right.
I learned teachers can laugh at themselves in front of the kids, especially true when the ridiculousness of a moment strikes in mid-lesson. Nothing should be so serious that there isn’t room for humor and laughter, especially at something you, the teacher, have done.
I learned the importance of accepting help and offering to help when needed. Sometimes a few moments to pull yourself together makes the difference. But even when you need a bit more time, the ability to lean on colleagues is key. We all need to lean on each other from time-to-time just to get through the hard days.
I learned that freshly picked strawberries are best with sour cream and brown sugar sitting on the back porch on a summery June day.
I will miss my friend, more than ever. As they say, may her memory be a blessing. Well Ellen, my mentor and most importantly my friend, your friendship will continue to be a blessing to me now and forever.
After An Educator's Journey 