Today is the day. All of the preparations that I've made over the past 5 years have finally paid off. I signed my temporary contract in April, passed the last two certification tests, and graduated with my Bachelor's. The local school district called and gave me an OFFICIAL contract offer. Without hesitation, I accepted. Next week will be a time for signing my contract and other legal documents.I won't know which school I will be at or what grade I will teach but I am grateful to know that it's official. What's funny is that I've been collecting things for my "teacher closet" for the past few months. My mentor teacher got a promotion and will no longer need some of her things so lo and behold she gave them to me! I honestly cannot wait to have my own classroom and be able to pass my knowledge onto my students! Some people have asked me why I chose to pursue special education. Some have even called me crazy for doing such a thing. Here's what I tell them, "It's in my heart." My oldest nephew has Asperger's syndrome and my niece is autistic. Before my nephew was diagnosed, I did not understand what was "wrong" with him. I was a little girl who watched a little boy listen to the vacuum cleaner run. But this same little boy covered his ears every time we played outside and our voices were just too loud. This same little boy could also name the model, make,and year of any car just by looking at it. Did I mention that he was only 2 years old at the time? I did not understand his behavior but I loved him for who he was. As I got older, I realized that there were other people just like my nephew. They need people in their loves who will love them and take the time to plant seeds and nurture them. I believe I accepted the challenge the day that I switched my major from Sociology to Elementary Education: Special Education. I have boxing gloves on and I'm ready for round one: 2012-2013 <3 Much Love, Princess Ali