I know I have said this already a million times this year, but how did the year slip by so quickly? It honestly seems like only a few weeks ago your children were lined up at my door eager to start a new year. However, when I stop to think of all that we accomplished this year, I realize it only seems to have gone by so quicly because we were having so much fun. Before they left today, I told the class how much I loved working with them, but also how much I enjoyed getting to know and work with their parents too. That is so true. Thank you for always being there to help your children succeed and working with me to help your child grow. I know I often told some of you to feel free to use the words, "Mrs. Connell said so," as needed, but believe me there were many times I used the words, "What would your mother say if she was standing here right now and saw you do that?" or another favorite "So what do you think would happen if your dad walked down the hall like that at his work?" Together, we all made a pretty good team this year.
The end of the year always makes me pause to reflect on how the children have grown, and oh my, they have grown in so many ways. Over the last few days, they were given back work that they did in the first few days and weeks of school. I loved listening to the chatter around their tables, I can’t believe I spelled this words wrong… I can’t believe I wrote like this…I can't believe I didn't capitalize this...I can’t believe I even thought this… I myself can’t believe how much your third graders changed over the course of the year, all good, wonderful changes. I too have grown as a result, learning right along with them.
Our third graders’ knowledge of the world around them and how they can impact that world through their efforts, words and actions has grown tremendously. By the end of the year I feel like I can get glimpses into the middle schoolers, high schoolers and the adults they will soon become, and I’m sure you can too. From speaking with several parents, I know many of you have experienced your child exerting their first bits of independence this year. Just wait, there are definitely more to come! While they may push you away a bit as they grow they do so knowing they have your love and support to fall back on when they need it.
Thank you very much for sharing your child with me this year. I hope everyone has a wonderful summer and spends many happy days between now and the next school year. I hope you keep in touch as your child continues through Leonard and beyond.
Take care,
Genia