At the end of every year, I pull all the binders out and let my current students read them. They like to see what school was like for the students that came before.
Then it is their turn to write me a letter. And their binder becomes a part of who I am just like all the others.
Recently, though, the letters in these binders have become invaluable.
I have had to pull a couple.
Copy them.
And do the unimaginable.
Send the originals to parents.
Because they lost their child.
Not one set but two.
Two former students in just as many months.
Tonight I read both letters. The one you wrote me in third and fourth grade because I was fortunate to loop with your class. That second year of having your group was unbelievable. There was a closeness in our classroom community that I haven't had since. We all knew each other and were like family. We started fourth grade where we left off in third. And I have memories of you.
I remember you standing in the doorway of my corner classroom with its red trim excited for another year of camp.
I remember you not reading all of your book report book, doing the project, then feeling so guilty about it you couldn't keep it in any longer. You finally told me and apologized.
I remember your quiet demeanor and old soul, wise beyond your years.
I remember your beautiful handwriting and was proud that I taught you to write like that.
But most importantly, when I think of you, I remember your ten year old self because that is the age you were when I last taught you.
Rest in peace sweet Tiffany. May you find comfort in your new home. Your words will always be with me. Always.
What a treasure you have created!
ReplyDeleteWhat a gift for the parents. And good memories you have to hold on to as well. May the letters be a comfort in such difficult loss.
ReplyDeleteOh, wow! This is beautiful. So much pain and so much beauty all in the same moment. What a beautiful practice you have created.
ReplyDeleteI love that you do this and have kept these all this time. You were Tiffany's favorite teacher and she was so excited (as I was too) that she was having you a second year. You definately had made a positive impression on my little girl and I thank you so much for that, you are more than just another teacher, so much more. Unfortunately not every child will have you or a teacher like you. Thank you Elana for all you have done then at 10 and now. This is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI cried when I read this. So beautiful. Tiffany and I weren't so close through-out and after high school, but I do have very good memories of her. She always seemed to be in such a good mood and she was the nicest, most positive person. I really hope she is in a place now where she isn't in pain and doesn't have worries or stress. She truly deserves peace. I keep her in my thoughts and pray for the absolute best.
ReplyDelete