It is the last day of school, and that means that it is time to say good-bye to a bunch of really good kids that I've gotten to know since they were sophomores. In fact, they are the last group of kids I'll have that I've taught since they were sophomores.There is something to be said for teaching kids more than once while they are in high school. Even when I've taught kids who I didn't enjoy the first time around, subsequent interaction as their teacher has proven fruitful (and enjoyable). They know me, my expectations, that I don't put up with much, that I'm really fair, and that I'm compassionate. They are at ease. "The ease" is what students need. When they feel comfortable and feel like they have a chance, they do better. When they know you (meaning me), they know your expectations better be met.
What I'll miss most with this particular group is hearing about their hopes, fears, and their angst (non-grade related....that angst will always be annoying). The students are like my kids. When it is time for them to graduate, it is bittersweet.
I'm going to miss the boy who literally runs up to me, overjoyed, to tell me what good grades he gets on his writing because of my (and another teacher's) efforts. I'm going to miss the girl who was really awkward and never realized just how smart she was that turned into a confident young lady who now knows she has a good head on her shoulders.
I'm going to miss seeing this bunch look out for each other and genuninely care.
However, one thing I am looking forward to is seeing my student, who was on the receiving end of a miracle, walk across the stage to take his diploma.
Yeah, I'll be boo-hoo'n. They are my kids, after all. I know I whine and complain, but there is a lot of satisfaction for the soul in doing this job.
Now, it is time for me to get some R-N-R. Teaching is tiring, emotionally taxing, and more work than you'll ever know. It is really stressful this time of year, too.
Three more days and I'll be here:
5 comments:
Very nice. I never imagine teachers could get fond of students. Then I had a child and she went to school, then I saw it first hand.
I hope you enjoy the trip to Nashville. Be safe.
It's weird. I treat all of my students the same, but some kids develop a rapport with various teachers while others do not. Sometimes I get the "bad" kids and they are fine for me, while they are complete terrors for other teachers.
There have been times when I have felt like I didn't know some of my students, even after a full year. Each senior class seems to have its own overall personality throughout its high school career, too.
I wussed out and didn't go to graduation, though. I'm feeling really wiped out and decided some rest was in order. It has been a very long week and I have to get ready for my trip.
I hope I have fun, too. :) Thanks.
I agree rt, even college students grow on you after a while.
One of mine will be in ther next Ultimate Fighter TV show in September...I hope he doesn't take a butt-whoopin'.
Congratulations on making it through a year doing something I know I couldn't do RT.
Get some rest and get ready to enjoy your summer!
Rogue
They're not just some kids sitting at desks. I get a kick out of when they get really excited about something and can't wait to tell me about it when they walk into the classroom. It means they know they matter. I always feel bad when I don't get to know students. I don't like them any less. I try to get to know them. I ask how their day is going and how their weekends were. Not many teachers take the two minutes out of class time to just have a little conversation. It builds good class morale and rapport.
Snigglefrits
I wonder why and how I do it. It must be that really bad concussion I got 14 years ago.
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