This is [not] the end

I saw this movie in Austin one weekend with Aubrey.  I actually loved it.  I know, I know...whatever that says about me...

Unfortunately, I meant no humor for what I am about to write, and it is more for my co-workers, as we pay homage to one of our most beloved. 

To everyone else on the outside, it might seem overly dramatic, but the message applies to all: Doing right must always triumph over wrong.

For anyone that has managed to find me (or let me vent to you), it is not surprising that I have mostly been disgusted with many aspects of my job this year.

I initially thought it was because I was adjusting to my first year back in the double role of worker and mom.  But then as the year rolled on, it was apparent that dealing with the rare occasional moody toddler was preferable over dealing with work. 

This school year has been a horrific unfolding of events that has undone everything we as educators are trying to teach our students every day.
I found myself being asked to do things that I wouldn't even do with my own child...knowing it would cripple him as a future adult.

But such is life; Of course I have to stay vague for public forums' sake, but if you'd ever like to hear an incoherent rambling of me on my soapbox talking about the demise of America's youth, drinks are on me.

And to my work family, you rock.  We have worked together for as long as I've been working at this school...most of you for years before that.  You have helped me grow up from an immature, cocky, know-it-all college grad to an even more immature but humble team player.  We are a very small staff making it easier to form such strong bonds and friendships.  You have been my mentors and my role models.

And to the most important person our school will ever lose:

Kim,
I love you beyond measure.
Finding out you are being forced to leave us caused actual, physical pain in my heart and a twisted knot of fear in my stomach...simultaneously.
This program is yours and always will be.  You have put in your tears, sweat, and blood to care for the students everyone else gave up on. 
You have loved us, encouraged us, and mentored us.  You know the most private details about everyone...students and staff...because you make it so easy to confide in you.

For me personally, you helped me get through every major traumatic event of my adulthood with open ears and open arms.  Thank you forever specifically for helping me get through the school year with my dying Dad...you barely even knew me. 

You're born with that kind of compassion; It cannot be taught.  You're a woven thread reinforcing the blanket that is my self-confidence and there is evidence of your specific love and mentoring in almost every aspect of my life. 

You will bring light and joy to where you go and lift up your new co-workers and students.  They don't even know they need you yet and will wonder how they've made it this far without your love and guidance. 
As for the rest of us...we will stay here in the dark, temporarily, and fight the good fight.  I will continue until I am driven out as well...or fired...whichever comes first. (It's also a very real possibility that I be mortally wounded if our school continues on the path it is now.)
You've trained us well, and I still believe that this is not the end.

I already miss you like crazy.

Love,
Me