During this placement, the class went from a challenging number of students (27) to a more manageable one (19) when a new teacher was hired six weeks into the school year. A number of school holidays, half days, and even fire drills made efficient planning necessary to accomplish our teaching goals. It was a rich learning experience in a short time indeed.
During this last week, the teacher, students and I counted down the days to my final one with sadness. None of us wanted to part company. Today, while holding back tears, I bid farewell to students who then overwhelmed me with a minute long group hug, lots of individual hugs, and a book of heartfelt letters that conveyed how I helped them learn.
I'm still so moved as I read these letters for a third time. "You make me more confident", "I would not have figured out math without you", "you are a funny teacher and a fun one", "you made learning fun", and "you will find a new set of cool students like us but we will never find another awesome teacher like you." Comments like these inspire me tremendously as I complete my journey to be a certified teacher. Making positive impacts on young minds. That's why I want to be an educator.
If it weren't for that curveball, I wouldn't have had the chance to meet really great kids and their amazing teacher. Don't despair over the curveballs that come your way. Something better to hit may follow.
