I wanted to add a quick blog tonight so I don't get too busy to tell the stories of things that have made my heart smile. I have only known my students for a few short weeks, but in those moments of getting to know each other, I have seen something growing that I haven't seen in several years. A family. Yes, that's right, my students in each class are becoming family. I have always stressed becoming a tight community and often their is a bond and it is a good thing. This year, however, the bond is stronger it seems.
Daily, I see students, not seeking the approval of teachers ( you know they are looking for teacher praise when they do something and then look around to see if you saw them), taking care if eah other. I see it daily when a classmate drops their folder or books and immediately, several students stop, drop to their knees and help. I haven't heard the usual snickers, rather I hear them say, "here I will help, you're still cool!" My heart is happy! Daily, I mess up and I have taught them to embrace mistakes and support each other through them. Thanks, Whole Brain Teaching, "It's ok you're still cool!" is an amazing and yet simple tool.
My heart is happy when two "cool" girls ask me if they can sit with a student who learns differently. Then, as if my heart could hold anymore pride, I see them carefully and gently, explaining what to do and helping. Never do they roll their eyes, giggle at the student, or make fun of them. Rather they, too, beam with pride when the student successfully responds to Class, with the appropriately times response of Yes!
I love watching a student help another catch up on their notes from an absence. I burst with joy when I see them jump up to help in out daily Boys vs Girls, cut and tape challenge. Did I mention that I saw a girl helping a boy, yes, their cut and tape challenge opponents because the young man was getting frustrated and she didn't want him to be sad if they lost because he could tear the tape.
There are so many other examples of these selfless acts of kindness. So many, I would never be able to include them all. Just know this, they are happening. They are happening in the quiet times when nobody appears to be watching. I am. I see them taking care of each other. I see them becoming a family. I don't have children of my own, I tell my students, but from this point on, they are my Science children. I love what they are and who they are becoming. I can't wait to see what else they do!
Now, I have documentation for those dark days when they blow a test. There is hope!