An Overflowing Heart

My heart is overflowing with and an endless amount of knowledge, gratitude, and love. My 16 weeks has come to an end. 16 weeks of getting to know each student as an individual. 16 weeks of falling in love with 22 kind, smart, and knowledge thirsty kindergartners.16 weeks of teaching and working with students. 16 weeks of learning from the most amazing mentor teacher I ever could have imaged (thank you Erica!). To say I feel blessed to have had the student teaching experience that I did would be an understatement. 

I have fallen in love with these kids. Especially the ones that push your buttons and make you question your sanity for wanting to spend all of your time and energy with five and six year olds. But I do. I do want to spend all of my time with them. Although today was hard as I said goodbye to MY students, I wouldn’t of had it any other way. They have become just that - my students. The feeling I got today as I watched the tears fall down one of my students cheeks as I said goodbye, that is why I want to teach. Knowing that I was able to touch his heart so deeply and make a positive impact, that’s a pretty great feeling.

Now, on to the celebrating! Each student wrote me a thank you letter. I loved each one but thought this post would get to long if I posted all 19 of them. So, here are a few.

("Thank you for reading us books! I will miss you! I hope you have fun!")

("I am so happy you helped us because you helped us be smart kindergarteners.")

("You have need a great teacher this year! I will miss you when you are gone!")

("You are the best teacher. Your are pretty. I miss you. I like your hair.")

("You help us learn. I like you! Thank you for helping us! I am happy for you. I miss you!")

Erica and the students gave me the book “The Last Day of Kindergarten” by Nancy Loewen. Fitting right?! Here is the best part, two notes written on the inside. One from her and one from the students.   

Complete with each student's signature!

 

Nancy Loewen actually visited the school this year and Erica was able to have her sign my book!

I had the hardest time trying to figure out what present to give Erica. How could I possibly show the depth of my gratitude?   

Through words of course!

With the help of my beyond amazing mom, I gave each student a tie blanket and book. They LOVED their blankets and couldn’t wait to read their books! 

I put this little note inside each student’s book:

We made cupcakes as a class for the students to frost, decorate, and enjoy during snack. Each student was able to help with making the cupcakes!  

Needless to say, the day was filled with smiles, “I will miss you”s, a few tears, and lots of  hugs.