The Kids Care

I was sick last weekend from about Friday to Tuesday, which includes missing student teaching and my UTEACH methods classes. I missed both days of student teaching, as well as Tuesday class. When I came back on Wednesday I was still pretty congested so I mostly helped grade, organize and setup lessons since I wasn't really feeling well. Then on Thursday and Friday we didn't have school due to Veteran's Day, so it was a very short week for me. I flew home that weekend for my sister's baby shower (suffered from a knarly sinus pressure attack on plane), and flew back at the end of the weekend. All in all, I was sort of tired and nervous about returning to my school since I had been out from teaching for almost a whole week. I wasn't prepared at all for what happened that day. Each student ran up to me as I walked up and clung to my leg as if they hadn't seen me in months. Then as the day went on they each told me something that happened while I was gone, or asked me a question about what I was doing or where I went while I was gone. Most of all, they said they missed me, couldn't wait for me to get back, and hoped that I was feeling better. With a smile from ear to ear, I listened, answered questions, and was reassured that yes I am making a positive impression on these little boys and girls. This experience helped me realize that yes I am in a new place, I am in an intense program, I am challenged every day, and my to do list is never complete, however in the end.........the kids care that I am here!!!