Today was last day of school for both kids. Maki would have been happy if it ended weeks ago, where as Justine would be happy to go every day of the summer too.
I found myself getting sentimental when I dropped Maki off at the middle school for the last time. This is the school he jumped into just a couple days after arriving from England three years ago. It was the beginning of 6th grade and he braved it like a champ. I found this old picture of him sitting in that office on his first day of school.
Gosh, what three years can do.
I don’t know if Middle School (grades 6-8) is easy for any kid. Maki had to stretch himself a lot over the past few years. But he made it! And next year….yikes! HIGH SCHOOL!
As he got in the car today, he said: “I’ll be back to visit my old teachers.” It made me smile to realize he actually had become attached to some of them after all. But the most special one of all is Mrs. Rosien, his art teacher each of the past three years. Not only was she a consistent presence in his life, but she built him up from the beginning, affirming how he “thinks outside the box” or is “one of my most talented students.”
Now, she may say that to other parents too. But it’s always great to have a teacher believe in your child and see them as a special individual. There was a sticky patch this year where Maki was struggling with his grades and I was too overwhelmed to check his homework assignments regularly. Vernon was in and out of the hospital with his infections and I wasn’t being very diligent. The homework thing was causing some distress between us at home (which I take most of the blame for.) I went to the school for support and ideas.
“I just can’t check School Loop every night! It’s too much right now!” I blubbered, embarrassing myself completely.
While the others in the room stared at me, surprised at my outburst and most likely, embarrassed as well, Mrs.Rosien jumped right in: “I’ll do it for you. After every class that I have Maki, I’ll check his School Loop and go over his list of assignments with him.”
It was a small favor, but I believe that is when Maki’s grades turned around. He’s brought up his grade in every class since then, and he has worked hard for it. His climbing friends, Scott and Sarah, have also come along side him to help him study for upcoming tests.
She is one of the special teachers that we will both always remember.
In my opinion, doing well in school is important, but not as much as doing well spiritually and emotionally. And Maki has impressed me to no end in how he has grown up this year. It was very hard to have his dad suddenly taken from him in the way he was, there was a lot of newness to get used to as well as a lot to let go of. But with the support of some mentor-friends, I’ve seen him embrace his life and interests in a new way. Where he once was cautious, he’s become almost spontaneous at times. As the “man of the house,” he’s been so helpful with his sister and me. I love seeing how confident he has become. It’s a remarkable thing, and I’m so blessed and proud.
It was a special day for Justine as well as today was the last day of Pre-K. There was a little promotion ceremony for the kids and little awards were given. I was pleased as punch to find that Justine was given an award for Artwork and Writing (I believe that is her letter-making, as she can’t actually spell yet.)
Here she is with her teacher, Miss Brenda, a very patient and kind lady, who taught her so much this year.
This sweet school was a wonderful gift to us this year. I hadn’t even planned to take Justine to preschool full time. I wasn’t that organized, and I figured the more time I had her with me at home before Kindergarten, the better. But after the accident, when I found myself driving some distance every day and looking for willing babysitters every morning, I decided to look into a church school that was on the way of my daily route.
I had no idea what we could afford, but I told Miss Kim, the principal, my plight, and she generously gave Justine a scholarship so she could attend every morning. This has been Justine’s joy. She loves learning and being around the other children, and I have been so relieved, knowing she is in a sweet and loving environment every day. I know she is ready to move on to Kindergarten now, but it was such a great experience that part of me wishes I could keep her there another year. (Actually, I will be sending her there for summer camp in a couple weeks, so we don’t have to let go entirely yet!)
Here she is with Miss Kim, who has become a good friend to me as well. I’ve spent many mornings crying or just talking things out in her office, after dropping Justine off. Don’t you love people who offer ‘safe spaces?
“One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings. The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.” —Carl Jung
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Awe reading about Maki’s teacher-saying she would look on School loop with Maki… Made me cry. There ARE good people in this world! God had surrounded your kids with angels… And you and Vernon as well… thinking of the pillow case from home, you mentioned, one of Vernons care givers brought him the other day, just so sweet!
those little things are EVERYTHING.
I felt the same way, taking Noah to middle school for the last time today! It is a BIG deal! They have turned into young men this year!
I’m so happy they will be going to high school together!
And sweet Justine… Loved those photos! Such a smart, talented precious girl!
Love you all 🙂 xo
Dear Allison, Maki, and Justine,
What a precious day for the kids and you as well. Am so proud of you and Maki and Justine. Glad you made it thru this year because it has probably been the hardest year for any body around. We have just sat a far off and prayed for you all but you have been there in the midst of it all. My thoughts and prayers go out to the whole family. God is there beside you helping you to make it just one more day. Have a good summer and enjoy the kids as much as you can.
Love and Hugs,
Becky Jones
Oh this is so sweet and makes me think of all the teachers who took extra time with me. I’m so happy your darling kids have been extra loved on at school. Ahhh teachers- so grateful for you and hate to think how we’ve taken you for granted over the years.
here’s to Mrs. Cowell (3rd grade), Mrs. Melton (6th grade) and Paul Russell (High school drama) and Janie D’Avignon (music) – My favorites! I wouldn’t be where I am today without you.
Melissa! What a great comment! I still have my favorites too. I’m still in touch with some of them!
Truly beautiful, affirming milestones. Maki’s art teacher is gold! ❤️
It’s so wonderful having Maki here. He is not too tired, slept on the plane, and we have been out cycling.
It’s been a very unusual situation last year, but it seems to work well. You are doing an exellent job with Maki, a lot of people would not worry about checking school loop for their children, but you felt you had to and asked for help. Maki’s art teacher has been so amazing in so many ways. I am so amazed he got through maths without failing. Well done!
Lots of love