End of the School Year

As we slide into the end of the school year, it seems that the last days speed up considerably.  As I begin to welcome my new 2nd grade students and their parents, I begin to release my precious 6th graders.  How can I possibly let go of these students who have made such a profound difference in my life. They charm me with their wit and precociousness, amaze me with their intuition and talents, and challenge me with their high expectations and energy. They have certainly enriched my life.

Now after two years of spending one day each week with the 6th graders, we have shared memories to hang on to. They know me very well, they know how to make me smile (and frown). As our busy last days of school pull them, and me, in many directions, some of them even choose to spend their extra time in my room. They have helped pack up the memories, make a scrapbook, and clean a well used classroom. I feel guilty taking them from their teachers when I know they are also feeling the tug of letting them go.  

Tomorrow we will honor them and then they are moving on to their next school.  I hope they will remember our morning discussions, puzzles, mindbenders, the fish test, clay fish, RAFT activity, SET puzzle, Dauphin Island, Wonderworks, kites, rockets, independent study, artwork, bridges, marshmallow skyscrapers, and all the many things that made our days so busy.  Most of all, I hope they remember that I truly loved and liked them.