My Life (and teaching) in Alaska: January 2011

This is just a heads-up to any and all reality TV fans, or those of you who want a closer look at what the "travel industry" is like up here. Discovery has a new show which just premiered this week called Flying Wild Alaska. It focuses in large part on the family that runs Era Alaska out of Unalakleet. They are the same people and planes I get to see every time I fly up here. I watched the premiere last night and it was so cool and kind of uncanny to be able to say "I've flown in that plane! I know those people!"

Additionally, Discovery filmed parts of our teacher in-service back in October that may be included on the show. I had to sign a release form saying it was ok if they happened to put me on TV, so if you do watch the show, keep your eyes peeled! However highly unlikely it is that you might catch a glimpse of my face on TV, I would highly recommend this show regardless. It gives a great picture of what life is like up here, and our complete dependence on planes to get us places and get us the things we need to survive. It's definitely a slice of life most people in the Lower 48 have no idea even exists.

Check out the show's website and watch some previews,
http://dsc.discovery.com/tv/flying-wild-alaska/

and keep your Friday 9 o'clock time slot open for new episodes!

XOXOjane

A little more than a year ago, the notion first popped into my head that my future might be in Alaska. On the 4th of January, 2010, I submitted my application to Alaska Teacher Placement, and from there on out, my life began to change. On January 20th I had my first phone interview with BSSD. In the beginning of February, I talked to my future principal for the first time. Back then, he was just a contact from whom I was seeking more information about teaching in the Alaskan bush. I had no notion that just over a month later, he would be calling to offer me a job. I signed my contract with BSSD on the 21st of March.

From there on out, my path was set. Alaska became a reality.

I have been living in the bush for 5 months now, and life here is beginning to feel natural. I am regularly overwhelmed by the beauty of my surroundings, and fascinated by the people who for so many generations have carved out a living here in this beautiful but unforgiving part of the world.

I have seen and done things in the 5 months that I've been here that just one year ago when I submitted my application I couldn't possibly have imagined. I have: filleted salmon, flown in planes that are no bigger than a large SUV or van, watched and participated in Eskimo dancing, witnessed the sun setting at midnight and rising at noon, gone swimming in the Bering Sea, hiked across the tundra...and above all, managed to survive my first semester as a real teacher without suffering any major meltdowns.

Looking back on my decision of last year, I am convinced I made the right choice. Last January 4th I was submitting an application on a hope and a prayer, my bank account empty, my job prospects nil. This January 4th, I welcomed my students back to school on the first day of a new semester. Talk about a turn of events!

Right now, my life and my heart are full. 2011 has only just begun, but already it's a bright new year.

XOXOjane

Some snapshots from Roman's and my walk around the village today. 28 and sunny - a perfect day for a stroll!