I did it. I survived my first year of teaching here in the Dominican Republic. Yes, it was my 12th year of teaching, but it really felt like my first in many ways. I quickly accepted that fact as soon as I stepped foot on the campus of SCS. I had a lot to learn- the curriculum, language, culture. My 3rd graders are now 4th graders. I had the privilege to brag on my students as their parents came in to receive report cards. Little did I know the impact that would have on some of them. I stood there, one parent weeping, as she told me how her son has completely changed in the last several months. An easily frustrated, quiet child now laughs and talks with confidence as he hadn't before. Another parent telling me that her son is much more focused and able to concentrate on his work than ever before. Parent after parent thanking me for the time I invested in their student. I am the one that should be thanking them for entrusting me with their child. Every frustration, every struggle, every one on one talk was worth it. It was through those difficult moments that I connected with my students. I told every parent that entered my classroom today that I am forever invested in their student. I will be poking my head in the 4th grade classrooms and listening for their laughter down the hall. I will be hugging them as they pass by on their way to line up for class. I will be passing out candy to those that pop in to see me. I will be asking about their families and how I can pray for them. I got to give one last hug (for now) to many of my students today. I reminded them that they are loved and important. Every.one.of.them. I don't teach for the praises of the parents. I teach because I get to make a lasting impression, with God's help, on every student who walks in the door of my classroom. It was hard to walk out of this classroom one last time. I turned around and paused a moment at the door. I remembered the laughter and energy that once filled this empty room.
The memories we have made together as a class- exploding markers, parties, games, picnics, penguins, etc. The quiet was deafening. But, I remembered I am not connected to this physical room. I am connected to the hearts of the students that filled this room. I changed right along with my students. I faced fears. I learned to listen amid noise. They taught me how to love life in a new way. I will see most of these precious students in just a couple months. They already are growing up so fast. Goodbyes are never easy. Some I may not see again for a while. But, God willing, I taught them something that will stick with them for a lifetime. And same with the teachers. Many will not be returning next year. I hope that they know the imprint they are leaving on me, even in the short time I worked with them, and the others they worked with at SCS. I held it together today. But now in the stillness of a completed year, it hits me. Changes are coming (or should I say keep coming). Some are very exciting (such as moving into a new air conditioned classroom!) and others may take some time to adjust. But that is okay!
I can be assured of one thing. My God is faithful! He has proved it to me over and over. He won't leave me. He won't change. I can rest in these truths. So, I am off on my next adventures. This summer is sure to be filled with many. I can't wait to return to the Dominican Republic in August. It will be a reunion of teachers and students- and this time it will truly feel like I'm coming home. And....that's a wrap!
The memories we have made together as a class- exploding markers, parties, games, picnics, penguins, etc. The quiet was deafening. But, I remembered I am not connected to this physical room. I am connected to the hearts of the students that filled this room. I changed right along with my students. I faced fears. I learned to listen amid noise. They taught me how to love life in a new way. I will see most of these precious students in just a couple months. They already are growing up so fast. Goodbyes are never easy. Some I may not see again for a while. But, God willing, I taught them something that will stick with them for a lifetime. And same with the teachers. Many will not be returning next year. I hope that they know the imprint they are leaving on me, even in the short time I worked with them, and the others they worked with at SCS. I held it together today. But now in the stillness of a completed year, it hits me. Changes are coming (or should I say keep coming). Some are very exciting (such as moving into a new air conditioned classroom!) and others may take some time to adjust. But that is okay!
