Red, White and Back-to-School

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Every year right after the Fourth of July something magical happens. Shelves, which were previously filled with bright summer cookout and beach essentials, now become filled with #2 pencils, binders, and every shade of sharpie imaginable. Growing up, I always made my mom take me to Target the day the school supplies came out (yes, we would find out in advance) so that I could have every color notebook and folder to choose from. To me, back-to-school shopping was a holiday. Today, it remains one my favorite days and because of the excitement it brings, this special day also serves as a wonderful reminder that I am indeed in the right profession.

Each new school year brings an amazing sense of “newness” filled with endless possibilities. Walking into school on that first day with the smell of fresh paint and clean floors allows both students and teachers to begin the year with hopes and dreams for what they wish to accomplish. As a student, I was always eager to get to know my teacher, for my teacher to get to know me, and for the chance to form lifelong friendships with my classmates.

As I begin this upcoming school year, no longer as a student but as a first-year second grade teacher, I continue to feel that same sense of excitement and nervousness which first days bring. However, instead of sitting amidst twenty other students my desk will be up front. Instead of getting to know fellow classmates I will be getting to know the wonderful faculty and staff that have already welcomed me with open arms.

This year is different. This year I am given the opportunity to show each of my students love, support and encouragement every day. This year I get to tell my students that they are capable of accomplishing more than they thought possible and that they should chase after their dreams, not give up on them. This year I get to tell my students that I believe in them and all they can be. This year is different. I have been given an opportunity to make a life-long impact and in return my students will be making a life- long impact on me.

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