Nick or Mr. B?

I’m having a tough time writing something right now. Last week was five days of orientation at CVA. And coming from a break in the school atmosphere, I felt my head expand with info. I’ve exhausted myself after each day and Friday was a blessing when that was all over. I met some folks at The Rack for a few drinks and food. It was nice to relax for a bit and build some connections there. Everyone here is extremely welcoming. I like that meals are provided when school is in session. I’ve memorized the four tenets of the academy. They are instilled in the staff here: respect, kindness, commitment, and community.

Today, the kids have moved in. The school year starts tomorrow – Labor Day. But I think it’s good to get rolling. I’ve been planning a lot and it’s time to implement things. It’s been a hectic day of moving students in, meeting parents, and making a big decision. Shall I have the kids call me “Nick” or “Mr. Bucci”? I’ve always been Mr. Bucci. That’s how it is in the public school forum. But here there’s only one teacher who prefers the formality. Shall I join her or allow kids a first name basis? That’s my conundrum of late. 

I’m thinking I may start with Mr. Bucci and go from there…but a big part of me is saying to embrace the first name-ness. I don’t want kids to get the wrong idea, but it is common here. Since I live in the dorms, I share a space with the kids. I can still earn respect with a first name…that’s been on my mind. I’ll decide tomorrow what I want to do.

I’m excited to be teaching both English and Social Studies. I feel supported here and I expect a good year. Moreover! I’m super excited to try some winter sports activities! I have a lot to learn here. I’m hoping for some time to edit a few videos I’m working on, as well as write. This post is overdue by a few days. So keeping up with everything will be a time management challenge. Teaching, writing, video editing, trying new winter things, and everything in between. Gonna be busy!

Maybe I’ll go with Mr. B!