And So It Begins

    My head is spinning as I head to my hotel room tonight. Passwords, policies, and names of so many that I am sure to get to know well this week circle through my exhausted brain. But its not those thoughts that brought me here. They are simply a means to and end. And that end is going to be so worth it. A chance to teach my students what real science is all about. A chance to let them know that they can make a difference. A chance for them to see that possibilities can become realities.

    I still can't believe that it was only two weeks ago that I got the call. My 8th graders were finishing up their notes as I calculated final grades. I looked down to see "Alaska" pop up on my phone. I must have said it out loud, because silence fell across the room. Every eye was on me as I answered the phone. Their faces reflected mine. I smiled. They smiled. They knew what was being said without hearing a word. I held the phone up, and they broke out in a cheer. I am going to Antarctica! I say it out loud, but I still can't believe it. I am going to Antarctica.

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    Beautiful sunny day

    Comments

    Marcia Pistoneā€¦

    So happy for you; so proud of you and cannot imagine all you will be experiencing! We will be following with excitement! Go with God's blessing and be safe---the whole team!We are thrilled for you for the chance to explore; learn and continue to do the wonderful job as a teacher! We are so proud of you Denise!

    Heidi Schacher

    I am so excited for you. What an experience, what an opportunity. Enjoy every crazy second. Praying for you to learn all you can and for your safety. Looking forward to more posts.

    Dominique Richardson

    The "fire hose of knowledge" at Orientation is real! But it will all fall into place as you continue to prep for your expedition. I'm so excited for you and can't wait to follow your adventure!

    Kathleen Dynes

    All of San Antonio Elementary is sooooooo proud of you!! They couldn't have chosen a better teacher for the job. Your students and colleagues are inspired by your enthusiasm for your craft. We look forward to following you on your Antarctica adventures.

    Denise Hardoy

    Thanks so much! You all have no idea how much all of your support means to me.

    Denise Hardoy

    Thank you! We are learning so much this week, but having lots of fun as we prepare to deploy!

    Denise Hardoy

    Thank you so much for all of your encouragement. It means the world to me.

    Amy Osborne

    Hi Denise! It has been great to get to know you and work with you this week. I'm excited that we live so close to each other and will be venturing to Antarctica around the same time. I look forward to sharing and collaborating more in the future!