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The messaging software made my phone ding and buzz. I got a message from my friend, and former coworker, Jaclyn, a 4th grade teacher.
(DING!)
Jaclyn wrote, "Guess who found out they are S's SECOND favorite teacher today? ME!"
Back in 2014-2015 I taught a high-energy, creative bunch of first graders. It was my first (and last) year in a general education classroom. That year we learned about building a community (the hard way) together. Through the ups and downs of that year, kids moved in and out, and we did our best to learn. I say we because the whole rest of my career has been in reading intervention. Small groups, all grade levels, short bursts of time spent together.
(DING!)
I wrote back, "Second favorite teacher? You are so cool. Who got first place?"
(DING!)
Jaclyn replied, "You did! Come be a mystery reader!"
Oh my dear S, the most struggling reader in my class who managed to make friends with EVERYONE that year. She had a smile that filled the room and more perseverance than ALL of the other kids. I was so touched that S even remembered me. I had moved on to another school in a different district when my students went to 2nd grade.
(DING!)
"I would love to read to the class," I replied.
It's a pretty amazing feeling to be someone's favorite teacher.
This is so precious! Love the idea of you surprising them as mystery reader. You must slice about that, too!! How fun.
ReplyDeleteCongrats!... a good feeling indeed :)
ReplyDeleteThe way this exchange plays out through message notifications is, in all senses of the word, crafty.
ReplyDeleteIt definitely is an amazing feeling to be someone's favorite, or second favorite teacher!
ReplyDelete