Moving On

Thursday was our last day.  On Wednesday, we had our moving up ceremony.  It was nice, but I was surprised because I wasn’t emotional about the kids leaving.  It’s surprising to me because I’ve loved them so much.  I guess I figure, we’ve had a good year, but it’s time for them to go.  We’re all ready.

I wondered who would show up for class on Thursday since they had all “moved up” the day before.  I was surprised when about three quarters of the kids showed up.  One of them was Sparky, the kid who was suspended for throwing a chair across the room.  Because he’d been suspended, he was not allowed to participate in the moving up ceremony.  We all felt really bad about this.  He’s a great kid, just VERY angry.  Until he gets that under control…I dunno what’s going to happen to him.

In any case, Sparky showed up with the other kids.  They were happy to be there, to help clean the classroom and to say goodbye.  It was a pretty laid-back day.  Sparky handed me a card and said, “Don’t open it here.  Open it at home.”  So I did.  I’m glad he warned me.  Here’s what he said:

Dear Ms. Whiz,  Your the only teacher who actually cared.  I’ll miss you.  I know I’ll look back and thank you for not giving up on me.  I’ll never forget you Ms. Whiz.  Love, Sparky.

I couldn’t stop crying.  He made my life hell many times this year.  I sure hope this year did him some good.  I really really do.