One of the most complex parts of being a teacher is when a class session ends, and it is time to say goodbye.
The attachment I developed to a group of kids I have watched grow and change over the year is part of me.
For many kids, my class is the first time that they are leaving Mom and Dad. Parents are trusting me with their most valuable possession, their child.
My lessons go beyond teaching a child to trust me; I need to gain this from all parties included. Tears may shed, hugs will linger, and goodbyes will be as long as possible.
Embracing change can be hard. A new adventure has started for the parent and the child.
Each new class is a journey for me. 
As we move into the school year, I watch kids run into the classroom, no longer clutching onto parents. I watch parents leave with a sense of trust and joy when they now say goodbye.
Every day they develop as individuals. I guide them to discover who they are. Little fish in a large ocean, not knowing how to swim upstream. Why should they? They are supposed to explore and test boundaries.
Children will try to push limits. That’s ok; I love when they do.
My relationships with my students become more individual as their personalities start to define.
I can see patterns in their likes and dislikes. They start to evolve into a person before my eyes.
Wiping tears, bandaging scraped knees, cleaning up paint, and blowing running noses, the time comes for them to move on to a new chapter.
Each child leaves an impression on me.
I am very thankful I am a part of changing the world one child at a time.
10 Responses
Aw this so sweet! We should be so thankful to have teachers like you!
Miss Suzanne ❤️I have witnessed you become the
Excellent teacher you have become little by little over the
Years. I have watched you gain confidence and comfort as a
Teacher. I know from experience that Your legacy will go on for the lifetimes of many of
The kids you teach! Patti ❤️
Change can be so hard and also so wonderful. Thank you for all that you do.
My child has made the big change from daycare to kindergarten this year. I know what you’re talking about, both as a mom and a teacher, too.
Watching the changes happen before your eyes is the best part. I am glad you also get to experience from both views 🙂
Dear Suzanne
Your concern and caring for the beginning students is exceptional… your understanding of the change from being at home and now going to school is is a wonderful gift that you give to them. With your knowledge, caring, and direction for the students, they make the transition into academia beautifully. Also Since this is the beginning of their educational life you are starting to pave the road for these children to progress not only in academia but their existence
Your love for your students shows through in your writing! Parents are blessed to have you in their children’s lives.
I am also so lucky to have them! Thank you for your comment!
This is absolutely beautiful. It would be lovely if all teachers could be like you!
Thank you so much