TEE and Fast Food

 When I think back to my time in the Teacher Education Exploration (TEE) program, the memories aren’t just of the classrooms or the inspiring lessons—it’s the little rituals, the friendships, and the fast-food runs that truly stand out.

Ashley and I were a dynamic duo during our TEE days, and our weekly fast-food routine became a cornerstone of that time. Monday through Thursday, without fail, we’d head to the McDonald’s in LaGrange. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about the experience. Reba, one of the kindest staff members there, became part of our little tradition. She had our orders memorized like clockwork. I’d roll up and get my number 9—a glorious ten-piece chicken McNugget meal with fries and a drink. My sauces? Always sweet and sour and BBQ. Reba would have it ready with a smile, and it was like seeing an old friend every day.

But Fridays? Fridays were Taco Bell day. Ashley and I would shake things up by heading to Taco Bell with a couple of our friends from other schools who were also in the TEE program. The conversations, the laughs, and the teenage camaraderie made it a highlight of our week. We’d pile in, order way more than we probably needed, and somehow not gain a single pound. Oh, how I miss that teenage metabolism!

Those moments might seem small, but they’re some of my favorite memories from those days. The TEE program wasn’t just about learning to teach—it was about creating connections and enjoying the journey along the way. I’ll always look back on those fast-food runs with a full heart (and a nostalgic craving for a number 9).

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