Today my students were doing some silent independent work and I was desperately trying to get my papers together to finish my grading tonight (grades are due in the morning).
Out of the corner of my eye I saw a student approaching me holding a tissue. Immediately I thought oh gosh, he got a bloody nose and he’s going to show it to me. I kind of waved him away and said “Go ahead to the office.” hoping I’d spare myself the sight of his bloody tissue. Instead he looked at me bewildered and shook his head. “No,” he replied, “where should I put this ant?” “Oh, did you squish it?” “No he’s still alive, see?” And he unfolded the tissue slightly to reveal a tiny, wiggling insect cradled inside. My heart just beamed and so did my face, so proud of him for the compassion he showed this tiny creature. Those who know me, know how important it is to me to appreciate and honor all life. And no doubt, you’ve seen me collect a spider or two to release outdoors. “Go ahead and run ‘him’ outside!” I copied his identification of the little guy as male. I’m not going to say that on this day, the day before grades are due, that every student got the absolute most out of every moment and every lesson I taught. But when you are least expecting it, the students show you they are learning.
2 Comments
Lisa Goldman
3/4/2019 09:29:16 pm
Perfect slice of your day! Love when the SEL moments shine through.
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Sharon Gubser
3/4/2019 10:26:46 pm
Melody, I love this slice! What a sweet moment with your student.
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Author5th grade teacher, wife, mama to my 3 magical babies, ally, advocate, doggy foster mom... just stumbling on. Archives
March 2022
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