Firsts.

First of all, I would just like to say:

I can do anything.

Today was my first day substituting in a new school district, and I was called into a school I hadn't yet visited through college field placements. What's more, I wasn't called in as a regular classroom teacher--the assignment called for a paraprofessional, an assistant to the teacher and a signal of someone in the class who would need some Extra Attention.

Okay, no problem, I've worked with English language learners before, I've worked with kids who have some behavior issues before...but I have no idea how to help with a student who has a physical disability or condition. But I'm just a para. There will still be a teacher in the room. This is okay.

When I arrive, I find out that I'm working at the Boys & Girls' Town, and I'm nervous. These are twelve-year-olds who've been through more than I can imagine. My childhood was normal for a white, middle-class child--"normal" for them has been very different. I was so nervous before they came in, wondering: How will I relate to these kids? Will they care? What is the regular teacher going to expect of me? Are we going to have a good day?

We had a great day. We worked on math, science, and reading; we ate lunch together; we played Speed and chess and Egyptian Rat Race. There were a few moments of serious conflict resolution and hidden nervousness, but the class was full of wonderful characters and a fantastic teacher, too. When I go back again, I'll have a little more of the routine down, and can't wait to spend more time with the kids. (I have to polish my chess skills, too--I was very soundly beaten today!)

After my first day of school, I raced home, made dinner (first attempt at mussels!), and hurried off to my first center in college soccer. When I arrived, there was another surprise waiting: one of the leading members of my officials' association, waiting with a clipboard and a rulebook, already watching the men's game (and planning to stick around for mine). A surprise assessment, on my first game! Joy.

Two whistles into the game, I was relaxed, running with the play, and having a fantastic time. Only 90 minues and one preventative yellow card later, we were finished, and I was done for the day.

Teach, referee, cook mussels? Just to repeat: I can do anything.