Note: Years ago I abandoned New Year’s Resolutions for a focus word (#oneword). It works for me.

Reflecting on 2024, I stayed true to my #oneword “Fulfilling”. I wanted to present more and attended both #ISTE and #ALA’s annual conferences along with others local in Georgia. I worked directly with public librarians in the state because we handle many of the same patrons and challenges. I wanted to expand my teaching with students and have significantly increased the number of direct interactions with classes. (Yes, there is data to prove it. It is a true gift to the school to have a full-time assistant so I can leave the Media Center and teach in the classroom.)

2025 offers more challenges in so many ways. I have left my comfort zone and volunteered to run as an ALA Councilor At-Large. I am committed to helping our state’s virtual library GALILEO reach more students and adults. I am still committed to improving and enhancing the learning opportunities in my high school and in the district.

The only way to grow is to evolve. Evolve means to develop or work out something new (Merriam-Webster). It means to undergo a change. Sometimes this is a major change, sometimes minor. It is hard to do because evolving also means the potential to fail at something while you learn it. Or, at least, you may take a while to learn and adjust instead of being the best in your area. It is a risky endeavor, but the rewards are great too.

In 2025, I will continue working with students, teachers, and admin, both inside and outside my school. I will connect more with the public librarians in our state. I will do my best to work with others, expand my personal learning, and share it with others.

Oprah Winfrey is credited with this quote, “The whole point of being alive is to evolve into the complete person you were intended to be.” I am still evolving. And, I always will be.

Reference:

“Evolve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/evolve. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.