Do you know the classic story by Robert Munsch? Love You Forever is a tale of unconditional and eternal love between a mother and son, but this morning I'm pondering the connections I have with students. Most students continue to give me hugs, high fives, and warm smiles for as long as they are students at our school. After they move out of our school and into the older grades, a surprising number come back to collect a hug or have a brief visit. When I encounter former students, now all grown up, in the community or at social events, I love to hear about what they are doing and they seemed touched that I care. I really DO care! |
A few students, take that ongoing contact a bit further. One in particular is on my mind. She recently told me, "I consider you to be like a member of my family. Is that OK?" To say this child has lived through trauma and adversity is an understatement. When tragedy struck in kindergarten, I dropped off learning materials at her home and set up tutoring. When tragedy struck in fourth grade, she came to me with the tragic truth and we figured out the next steps. When tragedy struck in sixth grade...we connected again and in collaboration with her teachers, new school, and community outreach we tried to patch things together. Time passed and we are in another tragedy...but this time I see a huge silver lining and I'm pretty sure she's going to be OK. I feel honored that she knows I am a trusted adult. She knows I'll love her forever. Once a CushKin, always a CushKin.