Gratitude Journal ~ Day 3

This is Naomi's class...all decked out for their Halloween party.

Today, I am so thankful for the schools that my children attend. Two of my girls are at an elementary and my oldest is a sophomore in high school. All three are doing very well, but the thing I love most is that they each have wonderful teachers. I really mean this! We are so blessed. As most of you know, my children had never been in public school. I was worried that they would get shuffled along in the crowd and not get the help they needed or not be challenged...
The truth is that they are getting more help than ever and are being tested and challenged academically. They are encouraged to think and are already making great strides academically and socially.

This is Taryn and one of ehr friends waiting for the Costume Parade to start.

My 6th grader will be going to a Science Camp in the mountains for a few days. I am so thankful she has that opportunity! I will begin volunteering a few hours a week in my daughter's kindergarten class and I am really looking forward to helping them and learning from her teacher as well!

This is Naomi's teacher. She's amazing!

It's Back to School: Are the parents ready???

My girls have been back to school going on three weeks now. They are loving it - so far. As I've mentioned before, this is the first time in about 15 years that I am not at work teaching. I have a little guy that I love more than myself. He just turned three and I am so glad to be home with him and I get to spend my days teaching him and watching him learn and grow instead of 25 kids...
That being said, I feel for these teachers as I drop my girls off and leave them in their hands day after day. I remember the feeling. It is a calling. These teachers are there (the majority of them anyway) because they really want to make a difference for these children.
I've already offered my help to each of the girls' teachers and have brought home work to do for my Naomi's teacher. I want to be as communicative and helpful as I can, because these teachers are going to be spending lots of time with my children. I want them to know that I am on their side. We are all working towards helping my girls to be successful, happy, productive people.
I came across an article that led to one more about things that teachers wished parents knew. As a teacher, I was nodding my head in agreement through the whole thing. I am posting the links here, but PLEASE take the time to read them. It's really quick and eye opening and I think it will help you, your child and your child's teacher. Have a great school year!!
13 Things Your Child's Teacher Won't Tell You
20 More Things Your Child's Teacher Won't Tell You

First Day of School...

Naomi is starting Kindergarten

Taryn is starting 6th. Top of the elementary!

Hannah is going into the 10th grade.

On the playground reserved for Kinders only! =)

Naomi found her place right away!

Then she had to locate her cubby. That was easy.

Everybody was asked to work quietly while the teacher greeted each new student.

Mrs. Saucedo seems like a firm, but kind teacher. Perfect for Naomi.

Naomi loved that everything was provided for her, including a new pack of Crayola Crayons that were the perfect size for her!

Here's Taryn waiting in line to enter her classroom.

Mrs. M&M...another firm teacher. The kids really like her already!

And here is MY student. Little Marco just turned three and we've got some fun and educational days planned. I look forward to being with my sweet boy as much as possible. I am so thankful for an excellent school system for my girls. I know there will be some challenges, but I am also trusting the peace that God has put in our hearts about this.

Looking forward to a great school year!!