I must be crazy, at least that is why my own mother said when I told her I was going back to school to work on my doctorate. I have accomplished many things in my life. I have a beautiful family and my children are now all grown adults. I have moved from teaching into administration and am principal of a high performing junior high school in Orange County, California. I have already earned an Associates Degree from Cypress College, a Bachelor of Science Degree in global studies, a Master of Arts Degree in cross-cultural teaching, and a second Master of Arts Degree as a reading specialist from National University. But it doesn’t end there, because I also have a third Master’s Degree in educational administration from Concordia University. Knowing all of that, why on earth am I going back to school for another degree?
I ask myself that question every time I look at my jam-packed calendar, every time I don’t get enough sleep because I am working late, and every time I struggle to complete another assignment on time. The answer is always the same. This is my dream that I am making come true. I am actually making my dreams a reality. I will be the first in my family to obtain a degree at this level. Neither of my parents completed more than an Associates’s Degree and my grandparents are all immigrants to the country. My father’s side is from Ireland and Poland and on my mother’s side is from Mexico. I am also excited to be a role model for my children, nieces, and nephews. Since they have all lived with me at some point in their life, I hope that my example helps them know they make their own dreams come true.
Unlike my mother’s response, the rest of my friends and family have been very supportive. My husband has learned that on nights and weekends I am studying or in class. Even when he wants a nice warm dinner, or just needs me to listen about his day, he is taking the backseat and allowing me to focus on my studies. I am grateful for his patience and support. My daughter is all grown and living on her own. I can’t be more proud of her and her choices and she supports me by encouraging me and remembering to call and check on me. My boys are both in college themselves, but living at home. They are super sweet and remember to text me instead of knocking on my door when I am in class. We can commiserate about homework and being exhausted. What’s really important is I also have the full support of my administrative team. Dr. Sell has agreed to work with me on editing my papers and Miss Sasai is working on her doctorate at the same time, so we can share ideas. I am blessed to have such supportive friends and family members.
So, as I move forward on this crazy journey, I hope that I can stay sane and not crush myself under the pressure.
The Principal Has Homework 