Today was an absolutely amazing day, one that reminds me of why I'm a music teacher. It started out sorta scary when I was nearly merged into on my way to school but got immediately better when I walked in and was congratulated on my job as a music teacher by a man who was leading the campfire sing along with our middle schoolers at leadership camp earlier this year. They were great singers, willing to do anything, and knew most of the songs that were being sung. At one point, I guess, this person just stopped singing to listen to my kids. He told me that I have done a great job with them. (ego booster #1)
Then, towards the end of the day I had two kids in separate classes (M and E) who were incredible. M is new to our school this year and in the first grade. I learned her name the first day of class...and that's not a good thing. Today, she was totally focused and participating 100%. E has been a challenge since kindergarten (he's in 2nd grade this year). He used to just run around the room, being totally defiant and non-responsive. This year, he's been responsive to directions, willing to do things that I ask, and today was the model student. It was incredible to watch. He was also giving me 100% effort and focus. What a change from the last two years. I made a point of talking with his mom after school today and she was so proud of him, and he was proud of himself. This may be the hook that E needs to help him be successful in life, as he has so many odds stacked against him.
