This morning Sarah O and I went to the school to put the signs on the boxes (I forgot my camera, darn it, but they were SO cute!) As we were leaving the new principal came over and said “I can’t believe that your church is so generous. Our school is so lucky to have you. All I hear from teachers about your program is so positive. You are such a blessing” (Hmmm, “blessing”—might she be a Christian??? I don't know but the word caught my attention?) I left before teachers started arriving.
But later in the day I was meeting a mentor for lunch at coffee table. As I walked in the door, I saw two teachers from Eagle Rock Elementary. As soon as they saw me they jumped up and walked right over and started hugging me (which was a little strange as they’re not usually the most affectionate teachers and I haven’t seen them for 3 months, but it certainly made me smile). They were both talking at once and it went something like this,
“Oh my god, the bins you put together are amazing”
“They were so bright at cheerful and lit up the room for our meeting”
“I felt like it was Christmas and kept looking over at my bin all during the meeting and wondering what was in there”
“Yeah, you give us all these amazing supplies, I could’ve just cried”
“And then on top of that…what you do for our kids”
“It has been such a hard year for teachers, but you are always so positive. You make us want to do our jobs well”
“I found a place right in the middle of my classroom for my bin. I want it to remind me to be as generous as you when I am with my students”
Etc. etc. etc. This moment ended by one of the teachers (who is like 4’10” tall) getting onto her tiptoes and planting a big ole wet kiss on my cheek! Oh my!
You can imagine this moment was a little overwhelming in the best possible way! I told them it was a team effort and about the amazing kids who helped us put them together…and gave you guys full credit.
Then a few minutes later our new Vice Principal walked into Coffee Table (perhaps I should set up an office there?!), when he saw me sitting there and he came over and wanted to thank us for helping start the school year out on such a positive note for teachers and staff. (Little do they know there is more to come!)
So, if these brief little encounters are the only positive vibes, I’d say our mission is accomplished. But I’m sure I’ll hear more wonderful feedback as I see more teachers. Thank you. Thank you for the reputation you give our program—the ripple effects of your hours and kindness will impact our program all year!
With a grateful heart-
Sarah D
