I will always care about your child.
This is a line I included in every end of the year letter to parents when I was a classroom teacher. It is true. I still think about all of my students and wonder what they are up to. My first class of third graders are now twenty four and I still wonder if Kevin ever found his voice in writing. Is Alec working with computers? Are Simone and Jane still friends?
Last week, I was cc’ed on an email that informed a school secretary to process the necessary paperwork for one of my distance learning students to return to school. I was shocked. I didn’t see this one coming. I’ve had kids go back to school, but it usually involves a phone call or email from the family.
I know it isn’t personal. I know these are big decisions for families and they’re probably busy preparing for this next big change.
However, I can’t help but feel a little bruised. Maybe even a little expendable.
This wouldn’t be the first time this year. I’ve always felt like my job as a literacy coach was valued and important. I know there are still those who believe this. However, two days before school started this year, I learned that I would be spending half my day teaching distance learners.
I know this is [another] year unlike any other. And, just like any other year, I have poured myself into my work 100%. I’ve surprised myself with how attached I’ve become to kids virtually, how tight our community has become.
I hope these families know that I will always care about their child.
Where There Is Joy 
I know that this is really hard. Last quarter I had a student withdraw from my class after a week. Neither the family nor the student said a word to me & when I called home the mother was very abrupt. I’ve since realized that the mother was embarrassed (I should have guessed) and the child had many things happening that were not about the class, but – oh! – we really care about these kids & it is odd to see them go, especially this year. The family may not know it, but I”m sure the child knows that you will always care. Always.
LikeLike
They will.
LikeLike
First of all, what a beautiful line to send home at the end of the year, and so much of its beauty lies within the truth I know is there.
I wish I could remember whose post it was where she talked about the sadness of having students return to school. It IS a loss for the distance learning teacher and the other students in a year where there has been SO much other loss, as well. There isn’t a trail guide and and the mistakes to learn from, as the learning is happening along the way. I understand feeling sad and hurt that the family didn’t let you know. Completely.
LikeLike
It was Wondering and Wandering. I read it too. And I read your comment about checking in on your remote teachers, which I thought was so kind. I had actually drafted a version of this and then sat on it. Reading that post stirred the emotions again!
LikeLike
Your slice captures the passion you have for working with children. It also captures how despite all the challenges this year, you will do everything you can to care for your students. It’s hard not to take teaching personal in my opinion because we pour everything we have into it. Your students are lucky to have you!
LikeLike
I understand that bruising feeling and the emotions you expressed so eloquently here. I had a student not come back from Winter break this year. She just simply wasn’t there when we all returned. It turned out that her family had expedited a planned move up north, though they never communicated anything to me, just calling to tell the office. The other students and I were so surprised and sad that we hadn’t been able to say goodbye and wish her well. We sent cards, but as I write this, I’m surprised to realize how strongly I still feel about it. I am sure that child knows how much you care about them–I have no doubt you showed them day after day after day.
LikeLike
Love love that gorgeous first line and will echo Melanie’s sentiment. There is loss, it can feel bruising, and yet, it’s likely not about you. Everyone is going through so much…grace all around. You can still feel bruised though. Big hugs, n
LikeLike
I’m not surprised that you tell your kids that. They will always remember that. Know these kids returning are doing so well because of the teaching they had!
LikeLike
That’s so good to hear. You have one of my favorites returning next week. I want someone to take her out on the track one afternoon so I can meet her “in real life.”
LikeLike
So much feeling in that one line of comment…and this slice.
LikeLike
You were thrown into this position and it was chaotic at times but in the end, your belief that all children matter and deserve to be cared for, conquered the chaos! Here’s to you!
LikeLike
Thanks for sharing. Your details and thoughts pack an emotional punch.
LikeLike
I love that line and I am sure your families know and appreciate reading/hearing it. There is so much we cannot take personally, that is out of our control. I am sure you are doing an amazing job. I too am a literacy coach, returning in two week and have no idea what I will be doing. I have gotten used to being a plug for all the holes in the building.
LikeLike
However, I can’t help but feel a little bruised. Maybe even a little expendable.
This line really struck a chord with me. That is how I feel when schools move on from their partnership with me and they do not say goodbye. I will always care about your school is what I want to say. This post matches what I know about you Jess. Thanks for being this in the world.
LikeLiked by 1 person