Kindergarten is upon us

Today we go to Madeleine's new school for an Open House. I can't believe that what felt like a very long time is upon us....Madeleine's transition into elementary school. I know it's just a part of that mother's love, but I'm so excited for her!! I'm excited for this transition because I think she is going to do great and I think she is ready. Her pre-school teacher - Miss Montyne - prepared her well.

In Arizona, many of the charter schools have what is referred to as a modified full year program. So, Madeleine starts school at the end of July, but she has many breaks along the way. At this particular school parents are required to participate and volunteer 80 hours a year. With everything else I'm doing it will be interesting to see how I fit this in. Of course, because I work full-time I won't be able to participate at the school very often, but I'll be able to grade papers and make phone calls to parents, etc for events.

I've made it a bit difficult for myself by choosing a charter school over the local public school, but I feel adamant about Madeleine getting a great education that is geared toward her abilities. I went to the open house of the local public school and I was not impressed. Arizona has the distinction of having the worst public schools in the country. The local school district is not at the top of the list of great schools in Arizona so I'm not sure it has a lot of promise. OK, I know, "it's just kindergarten"....but still, I want her to start out with a love of learning and I think she has a better shot at the charter school than the local public school.

I'm not sure how I am going to handle work and school as there is a conflict there. I work with a bunch of men who have the mentality of men. If I worked with a bunch of women my work life, I think, would be more flexible. I'm going to have to make some changes and perhaps explore new sources of income....but we will cross that bridge when we get there. While my work is important to me, being there for Madeleine in the capacity of a Mom is more important.

I guess this Kindergarten thing is a new adventure for Madeleine and for me...and I'm looking forward to what it may bring to both of our journeys.