Making a Difference

Happy Wednesday! It is crazy to think we are in the final stretch of second quarter. Looking back at the first day of school makes me feel so amazed by all the growth we have made in this short amount of time. My little learners remind me of how lucky I am to make a difference in their lives each day, but little do they know the impact they are making in my life.

This week, I want to share how making a difference in my kiddos lives makes a lasting difference in my life. I have invited one of my parents from my current classroom to share with us the impact and lasting difference teachers make on kiddos. This is my first year at my school, and I was lucky enough to get a student who is the sixth child to go through our school. Her entire family attended meet the teacher night, and little did I know that I was going to be blessed with so many kind and amazing words from a family, but also never met a more thoughtful family.

Here are a few snapshots of how vital and the lasting impact communication has on families and students. Most importantly, I will always cherish these in the moment photos and comments from the families.

I truly strived to have open communication with my families within my classroom. Coming from a year where families did not communicate with me made it hard for me to build meaningful relationships. This year I set up early that communication is key and will be the center of our classroom. Our classroom, has an open door policy. I share a weekly update with my families, connected through SeeSaw, and always believe in a phone call or face-to-face when needed.

I know that I am many of my kiddos first teacher, and goodness, I do not expect them to remember all the things about kindergarten. But, I do hope they remember the love I had for them and learning! Connecting with my students and families through technology has only fostered that relationship and has made staying in contact with them has been amazing. You think about where your past students are, how they are doing, and where they will go. We are lucky enough to have technology to help us continue to build that connection and let it last a life time.

Remember that these families are here for the same reason you are, that kiddo. Each day find that light and spark that brought you into your classroom. You are needed. You are valued. You can communicate your needs, frustrations, but most importantly, your successes!