Dear Student,
The time is upon us. Tomorrow we will embark on a journey together. A journey that is sure to have some smooth waters as well as bumpy roads. Straight stretches where we can cruise easily and some windy segments that might leave us feeling a little overwhelmed and anxious. I need for you to remember, as this journey begins, that you and I are in this together. We will succeed or fail together. Because of that very important fact, there are a few things I need for you to know.
You have the right to a great education, and I have a responsibility to provide it. But you have a responsibility to help me create an environment that is conducive to learning. Each of us must do our part. We cannot expect the other to do everything, because we all know that won't end well. I am going to do my best, but I need for you to do the same.
Here is a little fun fact - I know there will be days when you would rather be anywhere rather than at school Here's my secret: there are days when I will feel the exact same way. The difference is that I hope you will never know which days I feel that way. I will put a smile on my face and try to bring my best. You know why I do that? Because I learned a long time ago that putting my best foot forward tends to make for a better day.
I also know that I won't know what all you are enduring or facing. Unless you tell me, I may never know the full extent of what life is like for you. If you want to talk to me about that, I absolutely will listen to you. I will probably cry with you. If you don't want to talk about it, that is okay, too. I want you to know that I care about you and your world.
History may not be your thing. I totally get that. I have no delusions that I will create an little army of historians. And I really am okay with that. One of my favorite teachers in the world was my biology teacher. We all see how that turned out! If I can't get you passionate about history, maybe I can teach you some life skills. I love imparting life lessons, and hopefully you can take one or two of those and apply those to your life. I would love for you to not have to make some mistakes because you heeded a little advice here and there.
I do this job because I love it. I enjoy being around teenagers. I love teaching history and making connections to our current world. I relish in the friendly banter I get to engage in with my students. I like to ask those difficult questions, but I love it when a student comes up when a thoughtful, rational response. I want you to think. I want you to dig for answers. I want you to develop - not just as student - but as a human being. I love getting to see you progress as the year goes on.
Here we go! Our journey begins in just a few short hours. Get some rest, get ready, and come prepared for the journey. I can't wait to see where it leads us!
Mrs. Mills
1 comment:
such a sweet note! you have (and always had) a big heart. I know I've said this before, but I would love to be a fly on the wall in your classroom. :) the students are lucky to have you. do you pass out tootsie rolls? :)
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