Ten years ago I taught these students for two years in a special second and third grade looping class. I've kept up with them all these years and now they are graduating from high school and heading to university. They surprised me this morning by presenting me with a paver (brick) they funded at our school district sports gym with my name on it and the years we were together in second and third grades. The pavers are located in the "Plaza of Influence" at the sports gym...it's a program which recognizes individuals who have made a positive difference in the lives of students.
Needless to say, it was quite an emotional experience being surprised and honored by these incredible students as they leave high school and start the next chapter of their lives. I told them all about my 365 project and that our photo together would be my special project photo for today.
I've posted a class photo from day 2 of our second grade year back in 2007 in my Extras album. The photo isn't very clear but I thought it would be fun to show "then and now" photos. Here's the link to that early photo: https://365project.org/gaylewood/extras/2018-05-12
Gayle, I felt emotional reading your text, so I cannot imagine how you must have felt when they presented you with that paver. What an honour indeed! How lovely that you had a photo to post from 2007 too ... lovely memories for you and how nice that you shared them with us.
This is so beautiful Gayle! What fun it will be for you to follow them as they go on to college. That tall boy next to you! He has to be a basketball player! Love the 2nd grade shot too!
Congratulations! You did an awesome job making such an impact on their lives that they choose to honor you! I had fun looking at both pictures and trying to match them. Hard when you don't know the kids, but what a great group they have become!
Love your two shots, Gayle. It is wonderful that you've remained a consistent presence in their lives - as teachers we never really know if we're getting through the way we want - you obviously were. What a lovely honor.
@harbie Thank you so much for your comment, Harbie! Just as I clicked "Post Comment" for the above group thank you message your comment appeared so please consider yourself part of that thank you group also. :-)
