The first two weeks back with students have been equal parts exhausting and inspiring. From building a creative program in photography, film, and podcasting to launching a yearbook side quest, my classroom already feels alive with energy. I’m finding my rhythm, growing in confidence, and seeing students embrace creativity in ways that make me so excited for the year ahead.

As I trade in my summer iced coffee for lesson plans and seating charts, I find myself reflecting on how I became the teacher I never planned to be. From discipline roles to designing dream projects in photography, podcasting, and game design, this journey has been anything but expected—and I wouldn’t change a thing.