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Sitting in my classroom for one final day

Not quite sure what to think or to say

My gratifying journey has been a long, yet proud one

As these days end, my rewarding work will be done

My thoughts go back to ’78 . . . at my first teaching post

When a small community welcomed me, with the most

An unheralded collection of students helped a rookie to grow

Realizing that each day, there was much to learn and know

Supportive colleagues made me feel welcome and at home

We experienced plenty together, and I never felt very alone

My 40-year career continued across three different states

Each stop along the way, filled my mind with distinctive dates

Returning to nearly endless thoughts at this time

Teaching has been a admirable profession of mine

I began writing this poem on my “final day” of teaching.  Little did I know that I would be writing here now.  After 40 years and teaching in three different states, my ride has indeed been a pleasure as well as a challenge.  I am grateful to Montana, Wyoming, and Ohio for allowing me to teach their children.