0 And so the teacher becomes the student

As of this morning I'm registered for fall classes. I'm strangely nervous, feel like I'm standing on the precipice of a cliff, must jump, though I can't make out what's beneath or above.

The first year will be spent catching up on credits they've added since I left college as a senior twenty years ago as well as the introductory classes for my major. What I'm taking:

Computers for Learning.  I could easily clep out of this class, except that they list spreadsheets as one of the topics covered and I've never had a reason to deal with Microsoft Access. This one is an online class. I expect it to be an easy A.

Speech. This is an online class too. I haven't quite worked out how one teaches this class over the internet, but I'm all about keeping the trips to campus to a minimum as it's an hour and a half away. I've had this class before (made an A), but for some odd reason they consider it an expired credit. I expect this one to be an easy A as well. Speaking in front of groups of stakeholders and kids was a big part of my last job.

Intro to Teaching.  This is a lecture course that will necessitate my going to campus once a week. I think I can handle this class.

Geography. I think it's funny (sad?) that they're requiring this in college now and says a lot about the inadequacy of public school. Personally,  I might need Sam's help on this one.

Children's Literature. Required both for my major and helping to satisfy a burning question. I am considering becoming a reading specialist. This would allow me to work outside the public school system for a tutoring service if I so choose. As they are cutting funds in our education system at state level, I think this would be prudent.

I wanted (might be too strong a word) to take care of my math credit this semester but it simply didn't coincide with the schedule I needed to maintain. Because this is not one of my stronger subjects, I feel like I need to take an intermediate class before tackling it at college level.  Jeremiah assures me he'll be able to help, which is an odd thought.

So there you have it. It's going to be a long summer of anticipating and worrying about how I'm going to keep everything running smoothly.  Gary will help, but if history proves true to form, there will be friction. Though supportive, he's already fretting about the increase in transportation costs. I pointed out to him that without this, in three years I will qualify for yet another low-paying job (truthfully the last two were better than that), but with it, I will be able to contribute to a better-late-than-never retirement fund. My biggest worry is keeping up with the younger boys--making sure Sam stays on track, that Joe doesn't lose his mind like so many high school freshmen do, and that Daniel has a good senior year and is as prepared for college/life as we can make him.