What a special day this turned out to be with its wonderful weather. I awoke in a great mood as I readied myself to pack my little lunch and leave for my favorite place. In about 15 minutes I would arrive at my classroom with my eager little faces smiling as I open the door and say hello. As I check off their names on my lists and gather the supplies I would need to help them, I could see hands raising to be first and mouthing (me,me). I smile and call my first student and we head for our work area. I always ask each one “how was your weekend?” Their replies can be O.K. to I saw my Dad or my Mom came for a visit and then I cried when they left. It breaks my heart when I hear this as we tend to believe it is a perfect world for children but believe me for some it is difficult. So many of the children thrive on the one-on-one which tends to build their self esteem and also encourages them to compete amongst each other. A few are having their own little contests going as to who will learn all the sight words first.
The morning goes by quickly and I am feeling so rewarded and alive. It is amazing how doing a little can make you feel like you moved mountains, just like that!
I break for lunch and I head back to the classroom and work with a few more students. On my way to the office as I ready to leave for the day I spot a student from first grade in 2005 walking towards me with open arms. My goodness, how big you are, how old are you? When she replied “Ms Millie I am eleven years old”, I just reached over and gave her a hug. I mentioned to her that I can see her every day as I have the class picture on my wall. Her eyes open wide and her smile beams from ear to ear. Wow, that was such a long time ago she replies. This is her last year at this school as they move up and out after fifth grade.
I can hardly believe where the time has gone but it is so nice to see the fruits of my volunteering. Their faces will live on for years and hopefully I will see them around town as they grow into adults. This has been a wonderful day, indeed.
Current Mood:
Happy
And having been on the receiving end of such a teacher, I can tell you the personal interest is invaluable and never forgotten. Gully