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At 8:45 I popped my head out and checked on the students on the playground. Two second graders came running up to the door.
"Hi, Mrs. R!" they chimed, smiling ear to ear.
"Good morning!" I replied. I talked with the girls and a few other students about staying off the muddy field. I told them I would get my coat and see them soon.
Earlier, our principal and social worker had lead an early morning meeting centered around how our staff should react to what children might ask about the Sandy Hook tragedy. There was discussion about locking our classroom doors, what to say and not say to our students. Very little of the discussion was about how to take care of ourselves. Most of our staff looked tired and anxious.
I knew what I needed: fresh air and some smiling faces.
I grabbed my coat and told my friend, Michelle, that I was heading out to the blacktop where most of our students line up. She decided to join me. I greeted every student and adult with a smile. I made lots of welcoming remarks, noticed cute hats, baby sisters and red noses. We talked about the muddy field and our wishes for snow.
In return I received lots and lots of smiles.
Now I was ready to start my day, teaching and learning along with my students.
A smile goes a long way. I hope everyone can find a smile (even a small one) this week.
