Though I agree with Allison that chapters 5 and 6 did not include any "earthshaking" information, I still felt that it was nice to read. Chapter five brought to mind the fact that after the third year in a different position with the district, I am so grateful that I have like minded individuals to speak with about the challenges of each position that I have held. When frustrations are mounting with students, schedules, and curriculum concerns it has been a relief for me to talk with the other teachers and be reminded why I am here.

These chapters also made me think of the enormous pressure that our students must feel to fit in when everyone's expectations are being placed on them. It brings to mind my own middle school daughter who is struggling to find herself in the midst of meeting the very high standards that I hold for her. She is very bright, and also VERY disorganized. Her grades have slipped a bit this year because she has recently become more concerned with communication than school. Recently, she asked me what I thought of her going to Vo-tech for Culinary. I told her I was against it as I want her to continue with her academic and honors classes. I worry that if she decides on this career path now, she is limiting herself to a narrow career range if she changes her mind. After reading these chapters, I am seriously questioning my decision. She has wanted to be a chef since she was four and I don't want to squash those dreams. What to do, what to do?