Meet the teacher was a success! I got to meet about a third of my sweeties and hopefully make them feel a little less nervous and a lot more excited about the first day of school. It definitely made the teacher feel less nervous thank goodness! Yes, teachers get first day of jitters too. Maybe even more than the students. We just can't show it. Though most of the students were shy at first they quickly warmed up when they noticed Peanut, the class hamster. Who would have thought that a small little rodent could be the perfect bridge between teacher and student?
Thankfully, I only had one family in my room at a time so I was able to pay special attention to each student. While the parent was filling out all of the necessary paperwork and goodness gracious there's a ton and more on the way, I got to surprise the students with a little treat...magic confetti! Each student had a poem on their desk with a bag of confetti attached. I'm sure parents will love me after having to vacuum this up on the first day of school when the morning is already crazy enough. (All credit for this wonderful creation must be given to one of the most amazing 1st grade teachers I know, Mrs. Stagg, who was gracious enough to share this with me!)
A few memorable moments from the night...
One, when a curious little first grader attempted to open the door to Peanut's cage. That'd be a great first impression at my new school and a great way to make a name for myself, right? Thankfully I've started to gain those necessary "eyes in the back of my head" and happened to turn around just as he was opening the door. Avoided that potential moment of chaos. This will definitely be one of the first lessons taught on Monday.
Two, when I'd hear parents and students walking down the hall trying to pronounce my new last name. Some of the attempts to pronounce it were quite humorous, but it made for the perfect ice breaker. Good thing I'd already planned on being called Mrs. G! That'll make things a little easier for my little six year olds. Once they master how to spell it, they've pretty much mastered the alphabet though!
Three, when one student came in smiling ear to ear bursting with excitement and explained that he was ready for summer to end so he could be in my class. Talk about melting my heart! The sweetie didn't stop smiling the whole time he was in my room and gave me the biggest bear hug when he left. Teachers live for little moments like that, and it's true...they make it all worth it.
Bring it on Monday!
