This morning we went to the Department of Education to "speak" policy. I was looking forward to this - we all hoped to have an opportunity to ask questions and share our thoughts on the Blueprint. Unfortunately it turned out to be more of a lecture and regurgitation of what we have already read or heard. An opportunity missed for both the Department and the Teachers of the Year but the day was to get much more exciting... Today was the BIG day - we were off to the White House to meet the President. What will I wear to meet the President? What will I say? This was one of my most thrilling experiences. We were lined up in order by our states and as we waited Bo came out to greet us. I am sure my fifth graders will be more excited about my petting the first dog than my meeting the President. We entered the West Wing and waited for our moment in the Oval Office to meet, shake hands and have an official photo taken with President Obama. As I walked in and looked around I wanted to pinch myself! He was so friendly, warm and funny. Next my name and state was announced as I walked out the door onto the steps of the presidential podium into the Rose Garden. Second to my wedding, it was the most exciting walk down the aisle ever. I was thrilled to see my friend, Sarah Wessling, accept her award as National Teacher of the Year. I am proud to call her a friend and colleague. Finally I spent some time interviewing with the press, later learning that I had been on Channel 5 news. The celebration ended with a night tour of the monuments sponsored by Target. We were so tickled to see our buses arrive emblazoned with signs announcing us. It was great fun and a true happy ending to a fairy
tale.
Anonymous said...
ReplyDeleteHi Ms.Goodwin this is from community 27. We love all the pictures that you posted we all wish we were with you when you got to meet President Obama and The First Lady!!! See you on Monday!!hope you are having fun!!
love,
community 27
Hello Ms. Goodwin,
ReplyDeleteThis is Crew 28 shouting out a message. Dunning is so lucky to have a teacher like you – it is such an honor to be named teacher of the year. We think you worked extremely hard to become teacher of the year.
We wish there was a student or class of the year too. If we were voted class of the year, we would definitely talk to President Obama about “LOOSE” (Last One Out Shuts Electricity). If we were able to meet Obama, we’d feel torn between fainting and running up to give him a bear hug. Were you nervous that you were shaking his hand too tightly or too loosely? Did the secret service have to check you out before you entered the White House?
Thanks for sharing your spectacular trip to DC.
Your friends from Crew 28
(This is Crew 28 and we approve this message =)