A letter to my child’s new teacher:
Somewhere in the midst of your crowd of new students you will find my heart walking around in too-clean jeans and a brand new backpack. At least that’s what it feels like to me when I watch the school bus pull away. I am entrusting you — a total stranger, with my child and I have no idea what will happen.
Will you take the time to understand and appreciate the nuances of my child’s personality? Or will you be so burnt-out by teaching that my child’s rough edges do nothing but annoy you?
Forgive me if I sound jaded. I have been doing this parenting gig for a while now. My general rule is to back up teachers no matter what, but sometimes … Sometimes the mama bear comes out.
This world is a scary place; I don’t need today’s date to remind me. That’s why I’m expecting that your classroom will be a sheltered space. The water should be safe to drink and there should be no bad guys lurking outside. I want your days to be filled with laughter, discovery and joy. When rain pelts the windows this winter, your classroom should feel cozy and warm.
Yes, I’m guilty of piling on expectations. But I hold myself to high expectations too. My child will show up to school ready to learn. My student will be on time, every day, fed a decent breakfast and wearing clean-enough clothes. Homework will be done before screen time — I guarantee it, even if my child never puts it on your desk.
Our house is filled with books and our family reads together. We spend our weekends doing things that are important. OK, we might not soak up history at museums, but we do sports, Scouts and music. We travel all over this state and beyond. When you have a lesson that requires activating background knowledge, my student has a rich collection of experiences to call upon.
My child knows what it is like to care for a family member who is ailing. My child has a heart for animals and people in need. My child has cried over a lost friendship and argued passionately in a playmate’s defense. My child is loyal, loving and kind.
I know you have a huge burden on your shoulders. The state of Washington is making it worse. When will schools be properly funded? I don’t know, but I always vote yes on school levies. How did we allow this standardized testing situation to become so whacked-up? I have no idea. Why don’t teachers make more money? I wish I knew.
But here’s the thing. None of that political stuff matters as much as the time you invest into falling in love with my child. Because without love, there’s no way you can be the teacher my child needs you to be.
And I need you to be a good teacher, too, because this is my heart we’re talking about. Remember?
Sincerely,
Worried Mom
Jennifer Bardsley is an Edmonds mom of two, and author of the book “Genesis Girl.” Find her online on Instagram @the_ya_gal, Twitter @jennbardsley or at teachingmybabytoread.com.
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