To A Special Teacher

Today was my last day volunteering in Asha's Kindergarten class (I got to be in her class every Thursday - thanks to my wonderful husband). Her teacher gave me a sweet thank you gift, and then all the kids ran up to me and gave me a big hug. What joy! Though even as I type this now my eyes are full of tears and my heart is very heavy. You see, Asha's teacher, whom I have come to respect and admire, will no longer be teaching at Asha's school because of some district changes. I look back on the year and have realized I have learned so much from Asha's teacher (Mrs. Holmes)! She has truly helped me to become a better mom and person just through watching her life and her interactions with the children. I found this quote by Mister Rogers that totally models Mrs. Holmes. "Learning and loving go hand in hand. My grandfather was one of those people who loved to live and loved to teach.... He'd help me find something wonderful in the smallest of things, and ever so carefully, he helped me understand the enormous worth of every human being." (Mister Rogers). This is what I saw Mrs. Holmes doing everyday... helping the kids to learn and loving them for who they are! A few things that stand out: the Kindergartners would line up everyday outside her door waiting for school to start, and she would open the door and greet each of them with a smile, sometimes a pat on the shoulder, sometimes a hug, or an encouraging word, or ask them a question. She started the day off right with acknowledging each child. She was firm and kept the class in line yet she always had affirming words to say and set a very loving tone. I can guarantee that each child in her class felt loved by her. Even my other children would look forward to seeing her each day when we would drop Asha off at school. She often would take the time to say hi to them and listen to something they might have to say. Luke and Lana would frequently want to pick flowers to bring to Mrs. Holmes. She will be so so missed, and I'm saddened that Asha and my other children may not have her as a teacher again! Thank you Mrs. Holmes for an amazing year! I do pray that she will continue to be used to make a difference in many other's lives!