were allowed to go into their room alone for 30 minutes
during that time we could take
whatever we imagined we might need
to teach school — for the rest of the year.
walking into my building, it was silent
i saw the ‘welcome back to the sun’ and ‘happy spring’ artwork
my class had created for the hall
expecting to be back soon after our spring break
walking into my classroom
it was sad
left as it was back in mid-march
memories, things undone, things i wish i could still do with my class
cards, and art, and notes, and pictures, and colors, and books
30 minutes to decide what to take
i filled my bags with toys and books and art and puppets
anything i thought might make my kinder feel a sense of comfort
as i teach them from afar and show them familiar things
it was hard to close the door on the year
knowing i will stay connected to each of them
but also knowing
something will be lost
in not spending my school days
sharing a room with them.
—
“time flies over us,
but leaves its shadow behind. “
-nathaniel hawthorne
I can’t even begin to imagine how surreal that all must have felt. Beautifully articulated! But this moment in time will not last forever. One day soon, you will be sitting in front of a room full of smiling faces again. Stay safe, stay strong, and best wishes!
LikeLiked by 3 people
thanks, brad, and i look forward to it –
LikeLiked by 1 person
This is so sad, Beth. Hope you and your family are staying safe and healthy.
LikeLiked by 3 people
thanks, and bittersweet, because I absolutely believe it is the right thing to do, just sad
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s all very sad. Hope you and your students all stay well.
LikeLiked by 3 people
thanks, merril. I know it’s what we need to do to keep everyone safe, and for the best.
LikeLiked by 1 person
😦
LikeLiked by 3 people
❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is sad, yes, Beth. I hope as said that the familiar sights online will bring happier connections for the kinders, and that will bring more joy to your life as well.
LikeLiked by 3 people
yes, it is wonderful even when we get together online, and thank you
LikeLike
I would have cried the whole way home.. 😩
LikeLiked by 3 people
I was very emotional about it – but know it has to be this way to keep everyone safe.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It must have been strange to do that, but for the best. An episode of our life, it will change again.
Until then everyone stays safe and that is most important.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Exactly, ute. Our charge is to keep them safe and growing in every way, and what needs to be done.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It must be so difficult to be a major part of children’s lives, then suddenly not see them except on a screen. It is a lot lot like being a mother and seeing your kids grow up at a distance. I can tell you are a wonderful teacher. Hugs!!
LikeLiked by 5 people
That’s it, very well said. Thank you )
LikeLike
Bless you. This had to be most difficult.
LikeLiked by 3 people
It was hard, but know it is the right thing for all of us. We will be back.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Surreal indeed… This is a powerful post, Beth. The quote is poignant but powerful. Well done.
I think it’s good that you took the “familiar things” to show the kids via video. Hugs on the wing!
LikeLiked by 4 people
Thanks so much, teagan
LikeLike
I still remember my kinder teacher’s name, as I’m sure yours will remember yours. Humans adapt. It’s one of the things we’re really good at.
LikeLiked by 4 people
Exactly)
LikeLike
It is a lovely room. You can feel the silence, yet hear the laughter. I’m sure they miss you as much as you miss them.
LikeLiked by 5 people
That’s exactly how it was. ❤️
LikeLike
❤
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is a lovely environment for learning and beginnings. SO glad you were able to dash in and grabbed wisely. Puppets! Yess – they will love seeing those again. Puppets make kinder kids feel safe and comfortable – they still identify with wonder. Sending encouragement and energy, working online with that age would be a big challenge – but obviously you are one of the special few up to that most important task. And Kinder is one of the most important events of an entire life. RC Cat sends a very large salute in appreciation to your sense of duty and willingness to persevere under trying circumstances. She said, “While her name, like Our own, shallot be lauded in books, We, she and I, shape the world and will be held in hearts forever by those of our little realms.” Yes, to that from staff
LikeLiked by 4 people
❤️
LikeLike
This is the same work the teachers all over the country. Hopeful after the summer break, things will go back to normal
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yes, exactly and we will be back )
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beth, I love this post but also felt the sadness. Do you teach Kindergarten? I have a granddaughter who is in her second year teaching K’s—now from home. The quote you added is perfect for the times also.
>
LikeLiked by 4 people
I teach 3-5s, in a multi-age pre-I class. Thank you and best to your granddaughter
LikeLiked by 2 people
Man, that would be hard. You grow so attached to your students, and know they’re going to move on at the end of the year, but this would feel so abrupt, so unsettling. But so necessary. Stay healthy:)
LikeLiked by 3 people
Yes, to all of that, Judi –
LikeLiked by 1 person
beautiful job capturing the feelings of many teachers at this time. thank you for the work that you are doing; I know it can’t be easy, since I am sure your favorite part of being a kinder teacher is interacting with them throughout the day.
LikeLiked by 3 people
Thanks,jim – you are spot on
LikeLiked by 1 person
I hope you and the Kinders are all doing okay though Beth. Imagine this history they are living through. I have tried to encourage my grands to write about this. It will be good for their kids and grands to see. Be well Beth.
LikeLiked by 2 people
We are all doing well, thanks. I’ve encouraged my grands to do the same.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I would love to see what kids are writing about this.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I would love their perspective
LikeLiked by 1 person
Two things: first, inspiring to see how you and other Educators are continuing your vital role in shaping the minds of the future, even with these limitations. Second, I am inspired by how an entire world has managed for the most part to radically shift our way of living in order to fight back against an unseen enemy…
LikeLiked by 4 people
Thank you, and I am inspired by the resilience and grit I see in the world
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think it is amazing that you teachers will be able to “save the school year” so to speak. I guess it is reasonable to assume all students have access to computers to continue learning with their, favourite (I am sure) teacher!
LikeLiked by 3 people
All school populations are a bit different,a combo online,mail,and delivery for some.i feel fortunate
LikeLiked by 1 person
I imagine.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can’t imagine your pain and sadness. I am sorry and I am sending you a hug.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, but I have nothing to complain about compared to what many people are dealing with. Thank you for the hug
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh my Beth. such sadness and such hope in your words. The missing and the anticipation. The past and the present. beautifully evocative.
LikeLiked by 2 people
thank you -)
LikeLike
Beautiful and sad. I was one of those kids who felt at home at school. I’m sure you’re the teacher that creates that for your students. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
I hope so
LikeLiked by 2 people
I taught history to 9th graders and 11th graders for 33 years. Coupla heart attacks made me retire in 2006. I’m 70 now but I’ve continued to renew my teacher certificate every few years.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I understand that –
LikeLike
A beautifully written sad story. Stay Safe and Healthy:)
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, j will )
LikeLike
Very sad…an “unfinished” school year, so to speak. I’m sure your students miss you! Two of my grandsons graduate from high school this year; it will be like it never happened. Health is most important, of course.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Aw, but health is the most important
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s all so surreal ….
LikeLiked by 2 people
It absolutely is
LikeLike
There is something about not having closure for teachers and students that makes this especially challenging.
LikeLiked by 2 people
It is, and so hard to explain
LikeLiked by 1 person
I can relate, being a teacher myself. The last day of school for us, I didn’t realize I wouldn’t get to see my students again. I am thankful for video chat technology that allows us to still connect in some way with our students!
LikeLiked by 2 people
yes, i feel lucky for that
LikeLike
Grief can be a strange thing- showing up in unexpected places. My condolences to you Beth for your losses and kudos for your thought process in how to approach this situation. Health & safety to you and yours:)
LikeLiked by 3 people
thank you so much –
LikeLike
So sad. For your little ones who can never get that experience back and to you (and all teachers).
Stay safe.
LikeLiked by 2 people
i really have nothing to complain about, compared to others and their situations, just a very bittersweet experience as a teacher to be there.
LikeLike
I can’t imagine what that would be like, Beth. You can’t teach little ones from far away or through a screen. Well, you can, you will, but it’s not how we like to do it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It’s a challenge and the way it has to be right now to keep everyone safe and somewhat connected, though it feels very unnatural for me.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes. Very unnatural. Let me know if any of my resources on readilearn would be useful to you. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you so much, Norah
LikeLiked by 1 person
All has been said. And very well too.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank w
LikeLike
You
LikeLike
So sad.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Bittersweet- I know it’s the right thing to do, but miss it
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yeah, I’ll bet.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Ack – that is hard! I have not been allowed back into my classroom. We ended on a half day before spring break. The kids left at 11:00, we were notified at 10:00 that school would be closed until further notice and had that one hour to prepare items for the students to take home to continue learning from afar. Of course, we could not leave our classrooms because the students were there. So while they watched a book read aloud and ate their lunch during the last bits of time we had as a class, I tore through my cabinets looking for class sets of worksheets, reading materials, projects that I could send home. It was awful. That was on March 13th. Ugh. I wish now I would have thrown up my hands, handed out nothing, and sat on the floor with them just talking and sharing our thoughts. But we did not know that was our last time together as our classroom family.
LikeLike
I totally get that. I’m sorry. I was really surprised they let us go in
LikeLike
That is too sad and I’m so sorry for all of you. Teachers and children.
LikeLiked by 1 person
It is sad, but what we need to do right now –
LikeLiked by 1 person
Awe beth I am so sad for you! I bet your a great teacher, but its sad you wont see them again now. xoxo
LikeLike
Thirty minutes????? I have no words of wisdom, no words of comfort. Your words touched me deeply. There are so many losses, so many heart-aches. Thirty minutes to get your stuff to teach your munchkins; thirty minutes to say “good-bye” to the school year; “Good-bye” to the Kinders who weren’t there any more…..You are one of our silent warriors; one of the quiet heroes who continue to work and continue to bring joy to our children. Thank you, dear heart, for the dedication, the work and for continuing to “show up” on days that maybe you just feel like throwing in the towel. I do not envy you your position. It is not an easy one. Hang in there, Beth, and know that you are appreciated and held. ❤ Lucie
LikeLiked by 1 person
❤️
LikeLike
Hi Beth
This is very hard on all. Now people are realizing what an amazing job teachers do. One good outcome could be that teachers will finally be appreciated and given the credit and salary deserved.
Blessings! ♥♥
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you )
LikeLike
You’re making me veklempt.
LikeLiked by 2 people
bittersweet
LikeLike
Beautifully said, Beth. 💔
LikeLiked by 2 people
Thank you, Jennie
LikeLiked by 1 person
You’re welcome, Beth.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Such a dreadful moment. I’ve just retired after 35 years a teacher, and I can’t imagine anything like this happening. Stay safe.
LikeLiked by 2 people
it’s tough on all sides, and a huge challenge for families and teachers both
LikeLiked by 1 person
Blessings, Beth, as you teach form afar. That can’t be easy, especially for kindergarten. Neva taught kindergarten, too.
LikeLiked by 2 people
it’s certainly a challenge, because most of our teaching is done in close proximity, and with ongoing face to face experiences and connections being made
LikeLike
Beautifully penned 😍👍
LikeLiked by 2 people
thank you so much
LikeLiked by 1 person
This was epic. The other day I was downtown & saw a parade of decorated cars with signs that said we love our students we love our Tigers we miss… etc. I was glad I was alone because I couldn’t help but cry. It was so touching. Your words bring it even closer to my heart. May this be the last time this happens. Ever. ❤️🙏🏼
LikeLiked by 2 people
❤️
LikeLike
This is so hard on everyone and I think especially so on young students and their teachers. Stay safe and keep looking up! Memories have been made and will now be cherished. ❤
LikeLiked by 2 people
yes, you’re right, bette –
LikeLiked by 1 person
Oh what joy there will be when we can all get together again! ❤ xo Stay safe and well, dear Beth.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I agree! And you too )
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wow, Beth. I can’t even imagine how strange it must have been to walk into school, especially your classroom, knowing you only had 30 minutes to decide what to bring home with you to teach remotely. I’m sure you thoughtfully chose exactly what your kids will find familiar, comforting, and connected to you. I’m sure they miss you very much, but I have no doubt you’ll be able to bring some sense of normalcy to their lives, and lots of love and joy. Stay safe and healthy.
LikeLiked by 1 person
thanks, yes, it was very surreal almost.
LikeLike
This is very poignant, Beth. We’ve been told that we can have 15 minutes, by appointment, in our classroom this week to collect resources. It’s not the stuff that I miss but my students!
LikeLiked by 1 person
exactly. it was just such an odd and eerie experience, with none of them there
LikeLike
The self education industry is a $355 Million per day industry and is expected to TRIPLE in the next 5 years! And with the right strategy this could be your opportunity to:
Get in early before it is oversaturated.
Help others go faster while you get paid
Fix a broken system
Make an impact on the world
Get paid for a skill, hobby, passion or expertise you already have (or get paid from someone else’s)
And Tony Robbins, Russell Brunson and Dean Graziosi are finally going to show YOU how to take advantage of it…
(Now if you don’t already know who these 3 guys are then you’ll want to listen up!! They’ve impacted millions of lives and have generated billions of dollars)
Look, if you’ve ever thought about (or even if you never thought about) getting paid for something you know (like a passion or a skill)… or even getting paid from what others know, then you have to attend.
This is one of the fastest growing industries online and in all areas of the world.
And for the first time ever they’re doing a webclass training on how to extract your wisdom (or somebody else’s) and get other people to pay you for it!
You can save your spot here (and when you do register, you’re immediately going to get a brand new, never before seen training from Tony and Dean. No one else will ever get a chance to see this rare training except for us).
kbbmint.com
After hearing what they’re teaching, I truly believe this is the #1 way to make a massive income, make a massive impact on the world and leave a legacy!
And here’s just a fraction of what you’ll learn this week:
The mostly hidden $129 Billion dollar market and how you can make a massive impact and leave a legacy by profiting from it.
The KBB Triangle: The 3 ways to profit (whether you’re an expert with a thriving business, just getting started, or even if you’re at complete rock bottom)
The framework to profit from what you (or someone else) already knows – or by creating community and bringing people together.
Plus you’ll even be able to ask them questions when they do Q&A at the end of the training. (Chat is limited so show up early).
There’s no other time where you’re going to have this opportunity. So BE THERE! Because if you’re not going to make a shift in your life now, then when? And if not with these guys, then let me ask with who?
This is your rare chance to learn from 3 people who started from nothing and went on to generate billions of dollars and build massive companies.
Spots are filling up faster than they ever have, so you need to hurry and go here to save your spot
https://kbbmint.com
Register now and I’ll see you there this week – Plus they did a few brand new “pre-event” trainings that only those who register get access to.
Talk soon
LikeLike